Mandisa “Zulu Mecca” Nduna: Becoming an Unassuming Yet Dangerous VIP Bodyguard in Empini

Mandisa “Zulu Mecca” Nduna is no stranger to South Africa’s entertainment industry. From her breakout roles in Blood Psalms and Sew The Winter to My Skin to her nomination at the SA Hip Hop Awards, she has proven her versatility in film, television, and music. Her latest role in the Showmax Original Empini takes her into uncharted territory as Mbali, a determined VIP security guard at Mkhonto Protection Services.

Stepping Into Action as Mbali

Playing a physically demanding role like Mbali was a refreshing challenge for Nduna.

“It allowed me to step into the action world—chasing bad guys and protecting important people,”.

she explains

The opportunity to handle firearms and perform stunts added an exciting layer to her acting experience.

Unlike many of her past roles, Mbali is serious, disciplined, and deeply committed to her job.

“She’s younger and more intense than I am in real life. I made sure she wasn’t too urban, giving her a more serious tone and having her speak more in vernacular.”

Nduna says

Mbali’s Background: A Fighter with Purpose

Mbali’s story is one of resilience. Lacking the opportunity to attend university and coming from a troubled family, she found herself in the private security world. Now, in Season 2 of Empini, her mission is clear—saving Mkhonto Protection Services.

“Losing this job would make her life even harder, so she fights for the company’s success,”.

Nduna explains

The Art of Becoming an Unassuming Yet Dangerous Bodyguard

In preparation for the role, Nduna researched elite female bodyguards, particularly Gaddafi’s Amazonian Guard.

“Mbali is like them—small in stature but highly capable. I focused on agility, speed, and precision with weapons rather than brute strength.”

As an already active person with a background in CrossFit, she trained to enhance her mobility and strength for the role.

“It’s important to look convincing in action sequences, so I worked on making my movements precise and controlled,”.

she adds

Why Empini is a Must-Watch

Beyond its gripping action, Empini offers a fresh take on South Africa’s private security world. With compelling characters, unexpected twists, and intense fight sequences, it keeps audiences hooked.

Catch Empini Season 2 now streaming on Showmax, with new episodes every Tuesday.

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