BY NELIWE NGUBANE
MBABANE– A total of 76 aspiring actors auditioned for roles in the upcoming Kwasukasukela eight-episode youth television series at Meter Dorolosa High School on Saturday, highlighting growing interest in Eswatini’s expanding film and television industry.
Young performers from different parts of the country converged at the school, which was transformed into a vibrant audition venue as participants showcased their acting abilities in hopes of securing roles in the highly anticipated production.
The auditions mark the second phase of the Kwasukasukela Project, which has evolved from producing short films to developing a full television series. Aspiring actors competed for various characters, including Sibusiso, Mbulazi and Sakheni.
Successful candidates are expected to be contacted this week as organisers conclude the selection process and prepare for production.
The 10-month industry development programme is funded by the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM) and aims to strengthen the country’s film and television sector by equipping local creatives with practical industry experience.
Project mentor and director Samkeliso Nxumalo said the quality of talent displayed during the auditions demonstrated that Eswatini has promising actors capable of competing professionally.
“The talent shown by the actors proves that there is potential in the country,” he said.
Nxumalo added that the initiative combines classroom learning with hands-on production experience to ensure participants develop industry-standard skills while contributing to the growth of a sustainable creative industry.
He further revealed that about 70 per cent of the cast and crew are young people, creating opportunities for employment, mentorship and skills development within the creative sector.
The television series will be directed by Aphiwe Flex Mabuza, Sandile Makhanya and Siphosethu Sibandze under the mentorship of experienced filmmakers King Shaft and Nxumalo. The production will explore issues affecting young people while incorporating older characters to reflect different generations in society.
Among those who auditioned was Bhunya actor Majaha Mziyako, who said the opportunity would help him sharpen his acting skills and gain valuable industry exposure. Nineteen-year-old actress Angel Zubuko also described the auditions as an important platform for young performers to showcase their talent.
The Kwasukasukela Project has previously produced Her, Bigamy, Talk to Me and Lifindvo, reflecting its continued commitment to developing authentic siSwati stories and nurturing local filmmaking talent.
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(Courtesy Pic)
