I have always marveled at her talent, witnessed her as she graced the stage for choir performances and poetry recitals. A shy and humble young girl who always commanded the attention of the audience whenever she performed. However, it wasn't until I saw her monologue "Attention" on her Instagram page that I knew she wasn't just a talented performer, she was a storyteller. Through her words and expressions, she illuminated the screen with her brilliant acting. She has done so much in the world of performing arts and she is well on her way to changing it for the better.
I was able to reach out to her and we had a wonderful conversation on faith, acting and womanhood. As a friend, I am already so proud of her and as an absolute fan I am expectant of even more greater things.
The conversation
1. Tell us more about yourself, who is Siphesihle Masilela?
She is a child of God, first and foremost. A light in the world, a city set on a hill. She loves her family and friends and values time with her loved ones.
2. How has your journey through drama been for you?
It has been an interesting journey. I've learned so much about the art and how much it imitates life. It has also taught me how to become more of myself as it requires one to uncover themselves completely.
3. When did your love for drama begin?
I can't really pinpoint the exact time it began because I've always been a performer, from primary school into high school. I could say that I'd considered it as a career choice when I was in high school.
4. What do you hope to achieve through the characters you impersonate?
Sending a message, whether awareness concerning particular issues and showing that things can turn out differently, breaking stereotypes and changing the status-quo.
5. .What's the best character you've had to play so far?
A homeless child. This character has highlighted how cold the world can be but it brought out the strength and will for life that people have.
Photo: Siphesihle Masilela in action
6. Who inspires you?
Thuso Mbedu and Nomzamo Mbatha. These two women carry so much weight. With Thuso, her art speaks for her and with Nomzamo, her strength can break any wall. This is the kind of woman I aspire to be when it comes to my work. Considering how biased the industry and the world in general can be, their profiles have stood out to me.
7. Women are complex and gifted in so many other ways, what other passions do you have?
I had started writing poetry in 2018 and singing is a talent that I enjoy. Drawing is an art that I've discovered but I'm still working on it.
8. What change do you hope to bring to your industry in the future?
I find a certain song is being sung in the industry and I believe that it can be redirected to a bigger and brighter picture, Christ. It dances around the idea of the world and hardly anything concerning the truth being shared or even shown if produced. There is a lot of correction to be done, but a little bit of change goes a long way.
9. What keeps you motivated?
The Lord, honestly. I've come to understand that every dream, talent and passion that has been given to us has a purpose. This career path isn't easy and a God sized dream requires His help and guidance.
10. Do you want to pursue a professional career in acting?
Yes, I do. It has become more than just something that I enjoy doing, it is my work and what the Lord has entrusted me to do.
11. Who would you love to work with one day?
Mel Gibson and China Ann McClain.
12. What does womanhood mean to you?
Power. Women are a force to be reckoned with but we don't abuse it. It doesn't have to be thrown in people's faces, we see it everyday.
13. Any projects that you’ve worked on?
I've worked on two movies, one local called "Lebo" produced by Allan Lubega and written by Tshepo Masuku with Lubs Media Productions and the other is situated in Alexander and Sandton with Weheart studios by Henry Clark called "Alleyway"
14. Who are the people who have helped you along the way?
Through Lubs media productions I've met very talented artists such as Jiggy X who connected me with Henry Clark and featured me in his music video and a makeup artist called Smangele Mthimkhulu who I've done face modeling for, producers and acting trainers such as Mindvoice, Tshepo "Slim" Masuku and Nelson Mandlenkosi, also known as Mfana ka gogo, who are also actors.
15. How has your faith helped you through your journey?
My faith has been my foundation and as I seek the Father's Kingdom and His righteousness all things are added. One's purpose can only be found in the Creator. Everything that I've done came to be because of the Father's grace and favour.
She speaks so passionately about her love for the art and her faith. Through commitment and dedication, she has been able to do so much and has used her gift to share stories worth listening to. Her name reflects her presence, she has truly been a beautiful gift to the world and I can not wait to witness her continue excelling in her biggest role; being her, being woman and being a true reflection of Christ.
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