Newcastle’s resident is proving the town has talent to be recognised nationally, after being nominated as one of South Africa’s favourite actors.

Bheki Sibiya (46), who hails from Madadeni, has been nominated at the DStv Mzansi Viewers’ Choice Awards, under the ‘Favourite Actor’ category. Sibiya cannot only be recognised as an actor but also a director, cinematographer and producer.

His career in the film and television industry began after he completed his diploma in Speech and Drama at Natal Technikon, now the Durban University of Technology in 1997. He then worked as a production assistant on a few television dramas. As his career grew, Sibiya co-directed theatre productions and produced and directed several documentaries:

“Being at Technikon was not easy because back then, because such a course was dominated by white students. I wasn’t even good at articulating my English but I was very disciplined. I think because they also saw my drive and passion, they loved what I did.”

Sibiya said he was deeply humbled by the nomination:

“I am still very surprised and shocked about the nomination. I truly wasn’t expecting it, mainly because of the actors I’m in the running with. They are all exceptional in their craft, so to just be nominated is a great achievement for me. I must also add that this industry is still quite a difficult one, but even through the challenges, if you are passionate enough you can be able to sustain yourself and keep pushing. I have come to realise that acting alone won’t do the trick; you need to know how things even behind the camera. Witnessing the difficulty in the industry, I learned to equip myself with other skills like editing, camera work and directing. I am not just an actor, I am an artist.”

Sibiya added that hailing from a smaller town means he was proof that if one was persistent enough, they could make it:

“I am very proud to be representing our beautiful town. People elsewhere will be able to see that Newcastle is not a small place at all. We are unique, we can offer talent that can be recognised in the country.”

After shying away from TV screens for almost ten years while pursuing TV directing roles, Sibiya is back on the small screen. He clinched his first starring role in Mzansi Magic’s drama series, eHostela, which debuted in January 2019, acting the role of a ringleader ‘Mancinza’. The production is set in the heart of a KwaZulu Natal’s KwaMashu township, tackling the story of two sons whose bond is bound in secrets and sealed by guns:

“I actually approached Stained Glass Productions about directing the drama series, but they had other plans in mind. They asked that I audition for the main role of the series. I read the storyline and loved it. Soon after, I received a call to say they loved my audition and got the role.”

Sibiya said it was important to always stay humble:

“I believe if you respect people, you can actually go far in life. Also, have the power to believe in God and your ancestors. You should have your own sacred place that you go to pray, that is the place that centres us. That’s where you also get to speak to your ancestral elders and seek guidance in whatever you do. All I am, comes from God. To the youth; always believe in yourself and your dream, all is possible.”

Sibiya also co-owns the production company, Sobalili Productions, which makes short films and documentaries, as well as several dramas for the e.tv’s ‘eKasi: Our Stories.’

The DStv Mzansi Viewers’ Choice Awards honours the year’s biggest achievements in television, radio, music, sports, and comedy; voted by viewers residing in South Africa.

To vote for Bheki Sibiya, sms the code (6B) to 39201, or on the website: https://mzansimagic.dstv.com/show/dstv-mzansi-viewers-choice-awards/vote.

The DStv Mzansi Viewers’ Choice Awards will be held next year in March. 

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