Africa-Press – Eswatini. Seasoned script writer Welile Nxumalo scooped an opportunity on one of South Africa’s (SA) Telenovela titled Sibongile and The Dlaminis.
The telenovela is currently in the top 10 most watched shows in SA. Produced by Rhythm World Productions, who are well-known for producing captivating drama series like ‘Umkhokha-The Curse’, this intriguing storyline is pinned on the extraordinary journey of Sibongile Mbambo, whose real name is Luyanda Zwane, an innocent rural young woman forced to leave her family and dreams behind, to become a domestic worker in the lavish mansion of the affluent Dlamini family.
The well-established writer said she reached out to the Rhythm World Production crew and her work spoke on her behalf. “As far as opportunities go, we live in a very small country with very limited opportunities. Being fully aware of that and my own capabilities, I never shy away from seeking jobs externally. One needs to cast their net wide in order to survive as a creative. So, just like any creative, I am constantly on the lookout for opportunities.’’
Running
“I reached out to Rhythm World because they are currently running the game with shows like ‘My Brother’s Keeper’, ‘Umkhokha’ and others. I took a chance and God being who He continues to be, they were impressed with my filmography and quality of work. The rest, as they say is history!” She went on to share her experience; she said writing for a telenovela was an eye-opening experience. She said her contribution sparked the idea of reviving local telenovelas.
“Experiencing not just the creative side of the writing process, but also the inner workings of a series has been an eye-opener. I think we are long overdue for a local series and it is time to bring the band together and just do it! It may not be perfect but our collective, international writing experiences would help us leap frog with joint expertise and start strong,” she added. It is worth noting that Nxumalo has worked on a number of projects locally including short films, which have aired on local TV stations. She said her experience with the Sibongile and the Dlaminis’ project reinforced her self-belief.
“If there is at least one person who believes in your capabilities as a creative, it is you. It takes a lot to punch those keys working on a speculative script, just hoping that if nothing else, you will grow as a writer. Like every creative out there, I trust God for a productive and economically sound 2024. If that happens inside our borders, I will be the happiest. It is time we shine from telling our own stories,” she explained. Nxumalo also encouraged local script writer to continue writing as that would help hone their skills.
She also emphasised on the importance of joining a writing team. “Never feel you are too big to be led by others who may have less experience than you. It is amazing what you can learn when you work with others as opposed to flying solo. There’s an African adage I always go back to ‘if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together’, always look for opportunities to work with others and that way the industry also grows,” she said.
The first episode she wrote will be airing mid-January. It is worth noting that the show started airing last year.
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