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The name Hellen “Mukololo Wa Ha-” Lusunzi has become synonymous with Phalaphala FM. Lusunzi may very well be one of the SABC radio station’s biggest fans ever, as she not only listens to, but actively participates in, nearly every programme that airs on the station by either calling in or contributing to Phalaphala FM’s social media posts.
What many of her fellow listeners do not know, though, is that she is establishing herself as an actress on television, and her future is looking quite bright too.
Lusunzi has previously appeared as an extra in popular television soap operas such as Skeem Saam, Generations and Muvhango. Her breakthrough, however, came last month when she got the part of a hospital nurse in an episode of the television drama, Diep City, which airs at 20:30 on DStv Channel 161 (Mzansi Magic) from Monday to Friday.
Lusunzi, who hails from the dusty and mountainous rural village of Thononda near Ha-Khakhu, explained how her breakthrough came about. “After featuring in television dramas as an extra, I was determined to get a role as a full character, but it was difficult although I tried working with different agencies. Things changed last year when I started working with Pro Heed Casting Agency, who gave me in-depth training in stage and television acting. When Diep City came to Pro Heed Casting Agency and requested someone who could play the part of a hospital nurse, I met all the requirements and grabbed the opportunity with both hands. I can’t wait to see myself on television as a full character for the first time. At the moment, the complete shooting is still in the production phase. I will be the happiest person on earth when the episode goes on air because it will be the start of big things in my life.”
The founder and director of Pro Heed Casting Agency, Sedzani Stanley Sigebe from Ha-Mukununde Tshamutavha village in the Niani area, describes Lusunzi as a brilliant character who has potential to become one of the greatest television actors in the country. “It was clear from the first day I started working with her that she has an inborn talent that only needs to be nurtured. We have no doubt that she will easily step up the ladder in this industry, because she has all it takes to be a great television drama actor,” Sigebe said.
Lusunzi started acting when she was still a little girl at her home village of Thononda. “We had a drama group and used to entertain villagers for free during social gatherings. My dream now focuses on getting a full character on Muvhango, where I can promote my Tshivenda language. I am also looking at venturing into radio drama acting, especially on Phalaphala FM, where I’m sure I will add value to the importance of our indigenous languages.”
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Hellen Lusunzi’s future is looking bright in the television drama industry. Photo supplied.
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The revival of Tshivenda traditional music is not just the pipe dream of some idealists. Judging by the turnout during a meeting held in Thohoyandou this past weekend, this form of music is about to undergo a major revival.
Tshivenda traditional-music lovers are in for a treat with a collaboration between Tshivenda traditional music legend and veteran Solomon Mathase and popular poet and guitarist Dzomo la Venda. The two were spotted on Saturday, 20 April, at a function in Thohoyandou where they showcased their talents during a live performance.
During a Sunday sermon, Bishop Johannes Muofhe of the World Mission Church’s Fondwe branch prophesied that a musician, someone other than a member of the worship team, would emerge from the church.
With a successful roots-reggae album titled “Shandukani” to his name, Fhatuwani Richard Mashele is quickly becoming a household name in South African music. Better known as Jah Saint in music circles, Mashele believes that success does not come overnight and that one must work hard to earn it.
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