Nsikelelo Mthiyane (21 years old) is a South African actress and radio presenter best known for starring as the titular character in the Mzansi Wethu soapie Sibongile & the Dlaminis.
Hailing from Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal, she matriculated from Lizwi High School in 2019.
She furthered her education by studying for a teaching degree and a journalism degree at the Durban University of Technology.
Nsikelelo co-hosted a Saturday show called Youth Scrutinize on North Coast Radio 104.0; and was a sportscaster at Durban Youth Radio Station.
Despite no prior acting experience, she was chosen to replace Luyanda Zwane in the role of Sibongile for the second season of the Mzansi Wethu soapie Sibongile & the Dlaminis, in 2024.
Nsikelelo Mthiyane humbled to be making her television debut as the lead in Sibongile & The Dlaminiʼs
In season 2, Mthiyane will continue to tell Sibongile’s story as more explosive secrets are exposed, resulting in plenty of confrontations.
Mthiyane said Zwane gave her, her blessings when she landed the role.
“She said to me that it’s not about us but instead about telling Sibongile’s story.
“We both did athletics in schools, so she made an example with relay. She said it’s like handing the baton to the next runner.”
In preparation for the role, Mthiyane attended workshops with the producers as well as did research on Sibongile and the type of person she is.
“We kind of have similar qualities here and there, so it’s not that difficult to relate to her,” she said.
Working with veteran actress Baby Cele, who will also join in season 2 as Samkelisiwe, got Mthiyane excited.
However, she said she needed to remain calm and focused on her character.
“We already shot two scenes together. I was humbled acting alongside her, but I kept saying that it was not about me meeting the big stars. My main focus has been telling Sibongile’s story the right way.
“Sharing a set with her was like wow but I didn’t want to shift my focus or be distracted.
“I picked up a lot of acting skills from her. I love the way she delivers. I had this problem where I just wanted to say the lines, but she taught me how to give life to those lines, the way she gives life to her character, it’s just something that’s inspired me,” said Mthiyane.
The newcomer added: “I love the story. I love how humble Sibongile is and how she stands up for herself.
“Usually girls from rural areas are not able to stand up for themselves. You would underestimate her because she is just a rural girl, but she is dynamite and that’s what we need from women.
“No matter how young you are, no matter how poor you are, be able to stand up for yourself when it’s needed,” she ended.
Tune in for the premiere of season 2 of “Sibongile & The Dlaminis” on Mzansi Wethu (DStv channel 163) from June 29 at 6.30pm.
