Veteran actress Leleti Khumalo, renowned for her iconic role in the film “Sarafina!” has shared valuable advice with young creatives, emphasising the importance of self-respect in ensuring a sustainable and successful career in the entertainment industry. Leleti shared her insights during the Simon Mabhunu Sabela lecture held in Durban.
According to SABC News, the lecture is named in honour of Simon Mabhunu Sabela, an acclaimed actor and South Africa’s first black director, known for films such as Zulu, The Gods Must Be Crazy II and Gold. Simon passed away in 1994.
Leleti expressed gratitude for learning from Simon, stating, “Bab Mabhunu, was around us, we learnt a lot from him. When you see that you have legends around you and what they are willing to give you, take it, make sure that you take it with both hands and run. I was so fortunate I learnt a lot. I learnt to be disciplined. It is the first thing you need, you need to know who you are in this industry because there are many of us, this industry is huge.”
The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority commemorated film month with a focus on encouraging young people to follow in Simon’s footsteps.
Chairperson Nise Malange emphasised nurturing talent in rural areas and linking culture with success. She hopes young people will aspire to be like industry legends and celebrates the achievements and legacies of those who have significantly contributed to the KZN film industry.
“It’s linking the culture and the success so that these young people today can look into that and say give me a few years. I want to be like Leleti, I want to be like Mbongeni, I want to be the Simon Mabhunu of KZN […] and also the legacy and some of the people that have played a big role, that are still playing a role in the film industry.”
Also see: Nominees for the 11th Simon ‘Mabhunu’ Sabela Awards are revealed
