As an initiative of the Department of Economic Development Tourism and Environmental Affairs, the Simon ‘Mabhunu’ Sabela Awards was established to recognise the “achievement and excellence within the South African Film and Television industry, with a special focus on KwaZulu-Natal.”
Hosted by Nomalanga Shozi The annual awards recently hosted their 11th annual show at the Playhouse Theatre in Durban, where actors, producers, directors and various film and television technicians were given accolades for their various performances.
Among some of the individuals who came out victorious was popular ‘Adulting’ actor Thembinkosi Mthembu. The actor has been dominating on our TV screens this past year as he took on the role of Bandile on Showmax’s ‘Outlaws’, while he also played Bonga in ‘Adulting‘.
It was, however, his role on Shaka Ilembe that scooped him his very first acting award for the Best Male Actor. Thembinkosi portrayed the role of the son of King Jobe of the Mthethwa, King Dingiswayo.
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In his acceptance speech, the actor expressed gratitude to the event organisers as well as his supporters, while also acknowledging the role of the entire crew and highlighting the importance everyone plays in the final product. “You’re nothing without your co-actors. Actors are nothing without extras and so many people are nothing without the cameraman filming or the directors. We all need each other, so we need to respect everyone we work with,” Thembinkosi said.
Including Thembinkosi’s award, the Mzansi Magic drama series ‘Shaka Ilembe’ also managed to come away with three awards. Ziya Xulu won Best Newcomer Actress, while Dylan Lloyd won Best Production Design.
Also see: First black Miss SA Cynthia Shange honoured at KZN Film Awards
