Three actors from the Deaf community are among 35 aspiring performers selected for a new feature film following successful auditions held by the Eswatini National Film and Television Association (ENFTVA).
More than 40 aspiring actors attended the auditions on Friday at the Arts and Culture Offices in Manzini after ENFTVA, in partnership with South African television platform ZuriMagic+, called for local talent for the upcoming production.
ENFTVA Public Relations Officer Zakhele Mabuza said both ENFTVA and ZuriMagic+ were pleased with the turnout and commitment shown by those who auditioned.
“The auditions went well. We were impressed by the turnout and the seriousness that people showed throughout the process. We have identified 35 people whom we intend to sign contracts with, either today or tomorrow, as we prepare to move to the next stage of production,” he said.
Mabuza said one of the biggest highlights was seeing three Deaf actors excel during the auditions and earn places among those selected for the film.
“It was inspiring to see these actors come through the auditions and perform so well. They demonstrated that talent has no barriers and they will also be signing contracts with us. We are happy to see such talent in the country,” he said.
The two female actors selected are Nonhlanhla Maziya of Ngwane Park and Simphiwe Mhlanga of Zakhele. The third actor is Zama Mamba.
The actors were assisted throughout the audition process by interpreter Samkelo Nyamane, who helped bridge communication between the performers and the audition panel. His support ensured that the actors were able to fully participate and showcase their talent during the selection process.
Mabuza added that the association was encouraged by the quality of performers who attended, stating that the auditions confirmed that the country had a strong pool of acting talent capable of taking part in professional productions.
He said preparations for the feature film were progressing well, with filming expected to begin soon.
“Shooting will take place soon enough. At the moment we are identifying suitable locations where different scenes of the film will be shot before production officially begins,” he said.
Nonhlanhla hopes to inspire others
Being selected for a new feature film has filled aspiring actress Nonhlanhla Maziya with excitement and hope, not only for herself but for the Deaf community in the country.
Maziya, from Ngwane Park, is one of three Deaf actors chosen following recent auditions organised by the Eswatini National Film and Television Association (ENFTVA) in partnership with South African television platform ZuriMagic+.
Maziya said she was grateful for the opportunity to be part of the production and looked forward to working alongside the other selected actors.
“I feel so excited and grateful to be in the new movie with the other two Deaf actors.
“It’s a big opportunity for us,” she said.
Maziya expressed hope that the milestone would help shine a spotlight on Deaf people in the country and encourage greater recognition of their talents.
“I also hope that Deaf people in the country can be celebrated like celebrities, just as they are in South Africa and other countries,” she said.
She said she hoped her selection would inspire other people with disabilities to pursue their dreams without fear, proving that talent and determination can open doors regardless of the challenges they face.
‘Leave no one behind’ – FODSWA chairperson
The Federation of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities in Eswatini (FODSWA) has welcomed the selection of three Deaf actors for a new feature film.
The organisation described the selection as another step towards greater inclusion in the country’s creative industry.
FODSWA Interim Chairperson Elliot Shongwe said he was not aware that members of the disability community had been selected during the recent auditions organised by the Eswatini National Film and Television Association and South African television platform ZuriMagic+.
Although unaware of the development, Shongwe said the news was encouraging and reflected growing recognition of persons with disabilities across different sectors, including arts and culture.
“Our vision is to leave no one behind. Seeing people with disabilities being recognised in the arts is something we welcome wholeheartedly. It shows that inclusion is becoming visible everywhere,” he said.
Shongwe said he was particularly encouraged that persons with disabilities were increasingly participating in cultural activities that had previously offered them little visibility.
He pointed to the inaugural Music and Arts Festival for Persons with Disabilities, organised by the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office on September 27 last year, as a landmark moment that demonstrated the country’s commitment to inclusion.
“We are happy that government has taken the initiative to recognise people with disabilities. Today, they are being included in cultural events and artistic platforms.
“Years ago, there were stereotypes that suggested people with disabilities should not even be seen by Their Majesties. Those attitudes are changing and this is progress that should continue,” said Shongwe.
He said the selection of the three Deaf actors showed that talent should be judged on ability rather than disability and expressed hope that more opportunities would become available for persons with disabilities in the country’s growing creative industry.
