‘Be comfortable with the quietness’ — Slindile Nodangala on life as an actress

Slindile Nodangala reflected on her journey in the entertainment business after being unveiled as one of the cast members of BET's new drama series Queendom.

The actress plays the role of a militant yet soft-spoken character Ka Mahlangu in a show that explores themes of cultural heritage, tradition, fate, ancestry, power struggles, identity and survival. 

"Her story is very complex because she has a love interest. As kind, soft and conservative as she is, she has that sad past of not getting an opportunity to marry the love of her life and ending up marrying the king because she is from a kingdom of the Ndebele clan. She grew up under patriarchy so she is very submissive. For her it's a norm to be led and patriarchy is not a problem to her," she told TshisaLIVE.

How different is your character from you, and what challenged you most about playing the character?

The only difference is that I am not from the lineage of a kingdom. What makes me different is I wouldn't have said "yes" to marrying someone I wasn't in love with. I understand why she did it, but I wouldn't do it. I'd rather be single than be in an unhappy relationship.

I've been lucky to play very strong, talkative and open-minded characters — but I think because I come from a time when patriarchy was a thing I am used to it. We grew up with male figures leading the household and I've learnt to navigate those spaces where males are dominant. If I have to stand up for myself I will, but we from the 1970s fight differently from the current generation. 

Having been in showbiz for many years, how would you describe the evolution of your career?

This journey has been amazing but it has not been easy. I come from an era where we never studied drama because we never got those opportunities, but I have played big characters I've never imagined or dreamt of playing.

It's being able to roll with the punches and grab hold of opportunities and make the most of them. When God opens that door, walk in bravely and believe in yourself.  

What advice would you give to an aspiring actor or someone looking up to you?

You have to be comfortable with the quietness, because that will come, where you find yourself not working. Be OK with that, take the time and work on yourself. Don't stress. If it was written in the stars that this is who you are and what you should be doing, then it will be. 

I spent a year without working, and I waited patiently knowing what is mine will never pass me by. No matter what happens, don't blame yourself or give up. Just know it's going to happen. Take the punches with grace. 

What do you want to be remembered for?

The greatest actress who has ever walked on earth.