Oluhle Ncele (26), best known for portraying young Brenda Fassie in the SABC1 docuseries Vulindlela, shares her life experiences and how acting has inspired her.

Oluhle realised that acting was something she wanted to pursue seriously when she noticed how connected she felt to storytelling. Every time she stepped into a character, she could sense herself light up and come alive with honesty.

The moment that truly pushed her towards acting was when she was cast in a theatre production with no formal experience. She auditioned instinctively, and afterwards, her co-actors told her she should pursue a career in acting.

This support encouraged Oluhle to take a further step and study at The Market Theatre Lab.

She was later cast to play Nokwanda, a character in Their Fear, at the Joburg Theatre. At that time, she was still discovering herself; however, this role taught her about the importance of presence and emotional honesty. It ultimately helped her grow as a professional.

“Growing up, I was always observing people, studying emotions, and noticing how silence can sometimes speak louder than words. That sensitivity to energy and body language, combined with the challenge and excitement of portraying Nokwanda, helped shape the emotionally grounded and intuitive actor I am becoming,” she explained.

Her most recent role as a 15-year-old Brenda Fassie helped her understand the innocence and spirit that later made Brenda an icon.

Watch her on TikTok:

@oluhlencele

“Brenda wasn’t just talented; she was a force. Her vulnerability, boldness, and complexity drew me in. I wanted to honour the beginning of her journey, before fame shaped her,” Oluhle said.

Emotionally, Oluhle was prepared by studying interviews with Brenda. She delved deep to understand the girl behind the star. However, Oluhle physically prepared for the role by capturing her youthful energy through the way Brenda moved, laughed, and took space in the room.

This role presented challenges, and according to Oluhle, one of them was capturing her fearlessness and unpredictability.

“I want people to truly connect with my performance, especially those who relate to Brenda’s story on a personal level. More than anything, I want it to heal them. If someone sees a part of themselves in her journey, I hope my portrayal brings them comfort,” she noted.

Before beginning a role, Oluhle starts with the truth behind the character. She asks what the character fears and what influences them. Then, she builds the physicality, like their walk, tone, and rhythm.

Finally, before stepping on stage or set, she takes a moment to centre herself and let go of anything not belonging to the character. To help her get more into character, she likes to stretch, warm up her voice, and listen to music that matches the role’s energy.

*This article was amended after it was published. It previously stated that the actress is from Mohlakeng, but the newspaper has since been informed that she is from Bekkersdal. The Herald apologises for any confusion caused. — Ed.