November is known as Men’s Health month, Movember, a time to focus on and address the physical and emotional health of men. And right on cue, Mzansi Magic’s hit telenovela, Inimba is delivering a storyline that speaks to one of the biggest yet silent health struggles faced by men all over – infertility.
Inimba has cast the spotlight on one of its main characters, Lazarus (played by Loyiso MacDonald), who is currently grappling with this very issue, which in some communities is associated with ‘a man’s worth’. Lazarus is an inspirational man to many…he is a successful businessman, generous and charming but beneath the surface, his struggle with infertility is challenging the ‘traditional ideas of masculinity’.
For Loyiso, playing this role has had him digging deep into his vulnerable side to be able to deliver on his character. Here is what he had to say about being able to play this specific part of Lazarus.
· What personal or societal insights have you gained while preparing and playing this role?
Male infertility is an incredibly personal and complex issue and one that affects a person on a number of layers. In playing Lazarus I had to remind myself that this particular “flaw” or shortcoming is not by choice and not something that he can simply work on to improve or fix. Does it make him less of a man? How difficult would it be for him, or anyone else, to make peace with not being able to father his own children? How does infertility affect his romantic relationships? These are just some of the questions I had in my mind when taking on this story.
· Male infertility is considered somewhat of a ‘taboo’ especially in local communities. How do you think Inimba, especially your character, is helping to change this narrative?
I must applaud how our writers and directors have handled this issue. The character Lazarus challenges that thinking in that he has achieved so much in his career, is able to be a loving, present partner to Zoleka, is able to give back to his community through his orphanage, which can be seen as another way of ‘fathering’.
· Movember is about shining a spotlight on men’s health. How do you think Lazarus’ journey reflects the silent struggles many men face and what message can viewers take from him?
In portraying Lazarus, I have been challenged to take a deeper, more honest look at myself and my own mental health. How do I deal with stress and anxiety? How do I deal with my own shortcomings? I would hope that we all learn to seek help when we need it and remind ourselves that a negative experience doesn’t define you and doesn’t determine your future.
· As an actor, how do you approach roles that challenge societal norms? Has playing Lazarus changed your perspective on masculinity or male vulnerability?
Well, the beauty of storytelling is that when done with courage and honesty, it can tackle any issue under the sun. With Lazarus, it raises important questions. What is a man’s value? How do we as men embrace our vulnerabilities? Taking his example, men should define masculinity in their own terms, not by what is expected of you by family, partners or even worse, complete strangers.
· Outside of Inimba, what are some causes or conversations around men’s health and wellness that you personally feel passionate about and would like to see more awareness around?
Mental health awareness is important and it’s good to see that a number of organisations locally work tirelessly to encourage men to take their own mental health seriously. I would encourage anyone to not be shy or afraid to speak up and seek help when you’re battling with something. Sweeping it under the carpet is not a solution.
Beyond this courageous storyline and role on Inimba, Loyiso has made a notable and celebrated contribution to many other local stories – from his days on Rockville as politician Africa Mbatha to The Queen as Kagiso Khoza, as Principal Mthembu on Youngins, and many more.
Also see: Loyiso MacDonald debuts picture of his first child
