As South Africa marks National Women’s Day, it honours the legacy of South African women past and present.
This moment also recognises their significant contributions across various spheres.
THE STORIES OF SOUTH AFRICAN WOMEN
Television, a vital part of South African culture, provides a powerful platform for these narratives.
Women look to their TV screens for inspiration, finding both empowerment and understanding through stories that reflect their own lives or educate others about their struggles.
Here, we spotlight three actresses—Zandile Cele, Hlengiwe Lushaba-Madlala, and Kamvelihle “Kay” Bikitsha—whose on-screen roles illuminate the experiences of everyday South African women.
SOUTH AFRICAN WOMEN: ZANDILE CELE
Zandile Cele, a rising star from KwaZulu-Natal, is known for her role in Short & Sweet.
In her late 20s, Cele’s character as a sangoma brings a unique perspective to the show, according to TV Mzansi
Having faced bullying growing up, Cele’s real-life strength mirrors her on-screen persona.
“I am carefree and love singing at church and events. An exceptional singer, and that’s why people are so fond of me. I am a people’s person, she says”
INSPIRING SOUTH AFRICAN WOMEN WITH UNIQUE CALLINGS
Cele hopes her portrayal inspires short women and those with unique callings to embrace their worth.
“You need to believe in yourself no matter what people think about you,” she adds.
SOUTH AFRICAN WOMEN: HLENGIWE LUSHABA-MADLALA
Hlengiwe Lushaba-Madlala, a seasoned actress on Mzansi Magic’s My Brother’s Keeper, brings to life MaMchunu Shabalala, a resilient matriarch navigating complex family dynamics.
Describing MaMchunu as a loyal, God-fearing woman, Lushaba-Madlala highlights her character’s internal conflict between loyalty to her husband and her own happiness, according to Youth Village.
“MaMchunu is a pillar of strength, but she faces significant challenges as she questions her husband’s choices while keeping her family together,” Lushaba-Madlala explains.
SOUTH AFRICAN WOMEN IN DECISION-MAKING ROLES
She reflects on the broader industry issues and notes, “Although strides have been made, the industry remains male-dominated.”
We need more well-rounded stories and women in decision-making roles.”
KAMVELIHLE “KAY” BIKITSHA
Kamvelihle “Kay” Bikitsha portrays Nozuko Mxenge in Gqeberha: The Empire.
Her character embodies the struggles of a young mother dealing with financial strain and emotional turmoil, according to Briefly.
Bikitsha describes Nozuko as “a wounded woman who navigates life on her own after abandonment.”
Now, she battles between the life she desires and her current reality.”
APPRECIATING PEOPLE
Nozuko’s challenges, including managing life as a single mother while her fiancé remains imprisoned, resonate with many South African women.
Bikitsha shares, “A lesson I’ve learned from playing Nozuko is independence and appreciating the people around me more because we often underestimate their love.”
DIVERSE EXPERIENCES OF WOMEN IN SOUTH AFRICA
These narratives, portrayed by Cele, Lushaba-Madlala, and Bikitsha, reflect the diverse experiences of South African women.
Their stories not only entertain but also empower viewers, highlighting the strength and resilience inherent in women’s lives.
CELEBRATING NATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
As we celebrate National Women’s Day, let us remember and appreciate the profound impact of storytelling.