Showmax continues its tradition of nurturing African talent with its latest Showmax Masterclass, featuring the dynamic actress and Business Science Honours graduate, Nambitha Ben-Mazwi. This series, in partnership with Actor Spaces, follows previous insightful sessions from industry luminaries such as Bonko Khosa, Mandla N, and Bokang Phelane.

Fresh from her hosting duties at the Essence Film Festival in New Orleans and celebrated for her stellar roles in Black is King (handpicked by Beyoncé) and Showmax’s gripping drama Empini, Nambitha’s influence spans continents. Most recently, she won Best Actress at the National Film and Television Awards 2024 for her performances in Savage Beauty and Empini, solidifying her status as a household name in African entertainment.

Through her Masterclass, Nambitha provides aspiring actors with a roadmap to not just survive but thrive in the entertainment industry. Her philosophy merges creative artistry with a sharp business acumen, empowering actors to craft sustainable and impactful careers.

Finding Your “Why”

Nambitha emphasizes the importance of having a clear purpose.

“My vision is to be the epitome of God’s unlimited glory. If I can inspire a young girl, then I’ve fulfilled my mission.”

For her, the driving force is spiritual and inspirational:

This deeply personal approach fuels her resilience, even during challenging times.

Professionally, her strategic goal is to build a globally recognised brand by taking on projects that align with her international aspirations.

The Business of Acting

To sustain a long-term career, Nambitha advises actors to set quarterly financial and career goals, focusing on diversified income streams. She highlights voice-over work and commercials as reliable sources of revenue, enabling flexibility for sabbaticals or pursuing passion projects.

“You must ensure financial stability while building your professional portfolio,”.

she says, encouraging a balance between creative and financial well-being

Building the Actor’s Toolbox

A well-rounded skill set is central to Nambitha’s philosophy. She has continually expanded her abilities, from mastering Muay Thai for action roles to honing dialects for international productions. This versatility, she explains, is crucial for adapting to different markets and roles.

Her martial arts training was instrumental in her role as an action star in Empini.

“Being versatile isn’t just about acting; it’s about meeting the demands of a role with confidence and authenticity.”

She notes,

Assembling a Holistic Team

Success in the industry, Nambitha argues, is not a solo endeavour. She advocates for a team that includes an agent, business manager, and legal counsel to safeguard an actor’s interests. She also values strong collaborations with makeup artists, designers, and other creatives who share her vision, particularly in celebrating the beauty of dark skin tones.

Inspiring the Next Generation

In her Masterclass, Nambitha delivers actionable advice for aspiring actors, grounded in her own experiences. Her message is clear: artistry and business must go hand-in-hand for lasting success.

Upcoming Showmax Masterclasses

The Showmax Masterclass series will continue with industry stars such as The Mommy Club’s Mrs Mops, SAFTA-nominated actor Nhlanhla Kunene (Adulting), and Spinners lead Dillon Windvogel, ensuring a wealth of knowledge for creatives across Africa.

Nambitha’s journey is a testament to African excellence, offering invaluable lessons for artists aiming to leave a legacy in the entertainment industry.