‘Those living with HIV/aids have a right to life too’
Skeem Saam actress Myrah Molokomme believes people living with HIV should not be sidelined by society.
LIMPOPO – Skeem Saam actress Myrah Molokomme believes people living with HIV also have the right to life and therefore should not be sidelined by society.
The 23-year-old from Seshego plays the role of the 16-year-old parentless Ruth, who was born with HIV.
Myrah told CV that it was a shame that society in this day and age still discriminates against those living with the disease.
“Despite Ruth’s status, I love the fact that the character grows me as an actor,” she said.
She said through the character and through telling Ruth’s story, she is able to help stop the stigma surrounding HIV/aids.
“We sometimes need to put ourselves in HIV+ people’s shoes so we can understand what they go through when being treated otherwise,” she said.
Myrah said it is time that the country ends ignorance and the illiteracy that we have towards people living with HIV.
“We need to stand up learn and understand what is behind the stigma,” said Myrah. “By doing this we will be assisting our children to be able to make better and informed decisions when they start being sexually active,” she said.
She emphasised that the stigma is not a death sentence.
The actress said she feels honoured and humbled to be a part of the soapie family.
“I have always been passionate about acting and I believe that is my calling and assignment here on earth,” she said.
She said imitating other actresses since childhood has taught her that nothing is impossible. “Being born in a deep rural province couldn’t be an obstacle towards my dreams because I believe in myself,” she said.
“I believe in entertaining and educating people through what I do,” she said.
Myrah said she was inspired by the likes of Nomzamo Mbatha, Masasa Mbangeni and Thuso Mbedu.
“How such actresses told the stories, how they build love for their characters and also being versatile attracted me to acting,” said Myrah.
