Award-winning actress Nambitha Ben-Mazwi said she is excited to see what God has in store for her next.
Being the first South African actress to star in six Netflix productions, she told TshisaLIVE the achievement makes her want to make the most of it.
She has starred in How to Ruin Christmas: The Wedding, Black Mirror, Diamond City, Happiness Ever After, Dead Places and Savage Beauty.
Have you taken in this historic moment?
“I have taken the moment and being able to make history is not only a proud moment personally but more so for the people I represent and can inspire and give hope to. I can always be an example of God’s unlimited glory. Of course this is the tip of what’s to come. For me it has been ‘what is this for me, what does it mean, how do we make this work going forward for everything else t I would like to achieve, what’s the next step now, how do I diversify my role in filmmaking and my greater purpose, what do I stand for and hope to achieve?’
Did this moment shift your perspective in terms of what you wanted your career to be?
“It didn’t shift anything with regards to my vision. In fact, it probably confirmed that I’m in alignment, I’m on the right course and just catapulted my reach. I’m still an actor who goes to auditions, who faces rejection, who needs to pitch stories I want to produce, who needs to knock on doors.
I think it has also been how do I leverage this relationship with Netflix and other channels? I’m 34 and the bigger picture has always been to grow a legacy and opportunities in producing, creating and telling stories in different whether it be through film, fashion, or beauty. Those are the three pillars I’m very passionate about. It has always been about making a difference and leaving a mark. ”
If you were to reflect on your career in 2023, what are moments that stand out for you?
“This year was a balance of hardships and wins. I went through a lot of challenges. I think I faced more rejections than ever in my career. It was a knock, it was a character-building year, but I have also never won as many awards. In a few months I won the SA Style Award, the Actress of the year, Sunday Times A-lister list and a Feather Award. I was so proud of this because I know what the Feathers stand for and the community it represents. Being an LGBTQ+ ally this was huge for me. I was recently honoured with a visionary award in the Global Woman of Wonder Awards. I’ve been extremely blessed in a season of wins, but for me awards are a nudge that I must keep going.
What keeps you on your toes in an industry that is so fast paced ?
“I prefer not to be on my toes. I prefer to take my hikes and bush escapes. My Sunday church days and family time and friends keep me grounded in a fast paced industry. I’m always on the run, I’m always on my toes and I’ve realised the importance of grounding myself. I find more pleasure and value with having my feet firmly on the ground.”