Budding actor’s dream lies in City of Gold

A budding actor who trekked from his rural Limpopo village to Joburg is hopeful to be rewarded by the City of Gold.

The move three years ago was, according to Matupane ‘Shorty’ Mmola, the right step as he chases his dream of being an actor. He has a clear vision of his dream, is self-assured, spiritual, lead a clean life, and in the interim has a steady job that guarantees his upkeep and that of his fiance and child he left behind at home.

Quoting the biblical analogy of a seed that prospered in good soil and another that choked under a thorny bush, Mmola said many artists were, unfortunately, famous for wrongful acts which destroyed their careers. “It’s false and deceptive to say that drugs, alcohol and other shenanigans give them [artists/actors] power, recognition and abundance,” he said. “Talent is a natural gift from God and can’t be added on except to perfect it.”

Mmola added artists who were successful and had long careers were those who led exemplary lives. “Their messages are persuasive and embraced by society which will not let a blind man lead them.”

He said he was exposed and encouraged to pursue his talent by a school teacher and hasn’t looked back since he dropped out of school. Unlike others, he avoided crime when he was unemployed and doing piece jobs.

Mmola is open to any advice or platform that will help him. “I knock on all doors,” he said, and his affable character and attitude will likely see his raw talent grace theatres someday.

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He advises others with similar backgrounds and talent not to succumb to temptation when the going gets tough. “Sustain your self-belief and never give up despite the anxiety, and it will happen at the right time.” He also urged them to regard the tough times as building blocks to a better life which we all aspire to.

“Hang around positive oriented company and rely on the psychological power of prayer to calm down your fears.”

Mmola wants to start behind the cameras where he will direct his own scripts before showcasing what he is made of on the big stage. He can be contacted on 082 228 6147.

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