Tembisa-born actress features in short film
Netshiavhela said while in the USA, she acted in a project titled Angels in America
Nndivhaleni Netshiavhela, an actress and TV presenter, hits the local film industry on her journey to becoming someone to be reckoned with.
Hailing from Winnie Mandela, Tembisa, Netshiavhela has worked with some of the country’s biggest names, such as Jerry Mofokeng, Tina Jaxa and Nay Maps.
Netshiavhela can now be seen in short film Lefa The Inheritance. She said when she realised she was on set with these big names she was terrified, but glad to have worked beside them because they guided her through the role.
Netshiavhela studied journalism and drama at Rhodes University, and was soon awarded a scholarship to study at Willamette University in the USA for approximately half a year.
Netshiavhela said while in the USA, she acted in a project titled Angels in America.
“Growing up in the township is hard because it’s a constant fight, fighting to come out of the hood and fighting to get into the industry. Living in the township you get boxed in by stigma. The only choice I had was to study in order to break the barriers.
“Despite all the challenges, I kept my head above water. Even though I studied in the USA, back home I was sleeping in a shack.”
Netshiavhela said South African townships are rich in history which needs to be told through films.
“My focus is storytelling. When I walk around the hood I question why there isn’t stories about the late Charlotte Maxeke as the first black woman to obtain a varsity degree, for example.
“We, as the youth, need spaces and platforms to nurture our talents before we can seek exposure,” said Netshiavhela.
The 26-year-old also holds an honours degree in drama from Rhodes, she is an entrepreneur, scriptwriter, director, radio personality and an actress. She has also been featured in Ruined and Relativity: township stories and directed Solomon and Marion, Eclipsed and Mnyamane.
Netshiavhela keeps working her way to the top with MTV Base, and looks forward to bigger castings. She has recently found her heart in charity projects as well, which she said is something she would like to pursue in full force.
“While in the USA, we visited children’s homes. When I returned home it was difficult for me to find myself in that space, but I am slowly finding my footing and giving back slowly but surely,” said Netshiavhela.
