David Mabena rises to fame

David “Mdeva” Mabena  was born in KwaThema and started his school career at Duduza Primary School.

He then continued with his education at Esiboneloesihle Secondary School where he joined the male school choir.

Mabena says he also used to do drama and community theatre over weekends and school holidays at different townships in the East Rand.

He explains that his breakthrough was when he appeared in a drama called “Mpintshi ye gazi” on Soweto TV in 2010.

According to Mabena, he then discovered his passion for stand up comedy and was involved in a live DVD called “Lol” with big comedian acts such as Jay Boogie and Themba.

In 2013 Mabena made it into to a series called  “Loxion Lyrics” which aired on SABC in 2013. The series was shot in KwaThema.

Mabena says his craft was inspired by his grandparents who used to tell him stories of when they were growing up.

“We are family of storytellers and entertainers. Even the community knows us for our craft” He says.

Mabena says he faced challenges such as going to bed after a show without a meal or transport to return home for days on end.

“What made me persevere is the love I have for my talent because, even while I’m sleeping with an empty stomach, sometimes I dream of myself performing”

He says the youth should keep busy with their talents and focus on things that uplift the community.