Growing up in the dusty streets of Diepsloot in the early years of the South African democracy, Joseph Mvelase knew he would one day appear on television screens.
The creative work of this 38-year-old South African actor, songwriter and community activist, spans back from 1996 when he was in primary school.
Mvelase has appeared in a number of well-known TV dramas and short films including, Soul City, Isidingo the Need on SABC 3, Isibaya on Mzansi Magic, Muvhango on SABC 2 and Ihawu Lesizwe, to mention the few.
The death of his elder brother, Patrick Mvelase in 1996 who had just graduated in film and TV script interpretation, inspired Joseph to pursue a career in acting.
“I was born in a family of creatives and I was born an artist too. In school I was always part of those who were doing music, drama and cultural activities with my elder brother,” he said.
“I felt obligated to follow my calling and take up the spear when my brother died soon after he completed his filming qualification. My first big gig that stamped and approved my work as an artist, was the play called Kudelowaziyo in 2014 at The State Theatre. It opened doors for me and captains of the industry took notice of my work.”
Mvelase, who will be featured in a new drama series on e-tv later this year, urged aspiring creatives to work hard and apply discipline in their craft. “If you want to be successful in what you do, you need to apply discipline and remain focused. I didn’t get where I am today overnight, I had countless setbacks along my journey.”
“If you are not loyal to your dreams, you will never realise them. Never expect favours from other people but work hard to make your way up. It is possible that you will get many more ‘no’s than ‘yes’ in your attempts to get a role,” he said
