Simphiwe Majozi, known for his unforgettable portrayal of Sbu Makhathini in the hit TV drama Uzalo, has taken a significant step beyond the confines of the small screen. Majozi has opened his very own restaurant, Sbu & Ration’s Eatery, located in Newlands East, Durban. This venture is not just a business endeavor; it is a creative extension of the character that has brought him fame and success, TimesLIVE reported.
Inspired by His Character
Majozi’s character in Uzalo is a notorious hustler, and it’s this role that sparked his decision to step back into the culinary world. Speaking with TshisaLIVE, he shared his motivations: “Yes, the character that I’m playing now is what gave me the push to open the restaurant. I asked myself that I used to sell food during my tertiary days in Pietermaritzburg, so why don’t I go back in that business and serve food to people like I used to do back in the days.”
His passion for cooking has deep roots; during his college years, he ran a small food business called iKishi lam (My Kitchen), which was instrumental in helping him manage his tertiary education fees. This experience not only honed his culinary skills but also reinforced his entrepreneurial spirit.
Balancing Two Worlds
As Majozi embarks on this new chapter, he faces the challenge of balancing his acting career with the responsibilities of running a restaurant. Fortunately, he is not alone in this venture. He has partnered with Cebolenkosi ‘Lacostaration’ Minange, who oversees the daily operations of Sbu&Ration’s Eatery while Majozi fulfills his acting commitments. Majozi stated, “I just don’t know if people flock into the business for food or because I’m a good actor, but I’m humbled by the support.”
Majozi’s background enriches his story. Growing up in Mtwalume near Port Shepstone, he was exposed to diverse cultural influences, with a Xhosa mother and Zulu father. His early experiences in community theater and stage performances paved the way for his successful acting career. Even after facing personal losses, including the passing of his mother when he was young, Majozi stayed focused, encouraged by his brothers to pursue education in Marketing Management at Universal College Outcomes.
A Love for the Craft
Majozi’s journey into acting began in his youth, participating in church plays, eventually leading him to broader stage productions. His first notable performance was in a musical created by Bheki Mkhwane, followed by a role in Mike Mvelase’s Kwasuka Sukela. However, it was his role as Sbu in Uzalo that truly elevated his profile, captivating audiences with his portrayal of a crooked yet humorous gangster.
Through his restaurant, Majozi not only brings his culinary skills to life but also offers a piece of his passion to the community. Sbu&Ration’s Eatery serves as a testament to his journey—a blend of his past and present, where food becomes a bridge connecting his childhood ambitions with his current celebrity status.
A Bright Future
As Simphiwe Majozi continues to shine in Uzalo, his new role as a restaurateur opens doors to create a more profound impact beyond the screen. The intersection of his acting career and culinary passion signifies not just a business venture but a heartfelt connection to his roots and the values instilled in him from a young age.
With a successful eatery, supported by a loyal fanbase and solid business practices, Majozi’s journey is an inspiring reminder that while pursuing our dreams, we can also nourish the community that supports us. Sbu&Ration’s Eatery is more than just a restaurant; it is a new chapter in an inspiring story, illustrating the power of resilience, passion, and the love for what we do.