South African actress Zenande Mfenyana has reached a big moment in her acting career. After almost 20 years in the entertainment industry, she has finally won her first award at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs).
The awards ceremony took place on Saturday, 14 March 2026, at the Gallagher Convention Centre. The event celebrates some of the best actors, shows and filmmakers in South Africa.
Mfenyana won the award for Best Supporting Actress in a Telenovela. She received the award for her role as Thumeka Mabandla in season one of the drama series Inimba.
The win was a very special moment for the actress. It came after 19 years of working hard in the South African acting industry.
During her acceptance speech, Mfenyana became emotional while standing on stage. She was seen wiping away tears as the audience cheered for her.
“Thank you God. To God be all the glory, praise and honour,” she said during her speech. “Thank you to my family at home for supporting me.”
She also thanked her parents for always believing in her. The actress gave a special message to her child who was watching from home.
“My child, thank you baby. I know you’re watching from home,” she said. “Mommy did it! Everything I do, I do for you.”
In the series, Mfenyana plays Thumeka Mabandla, a strong and faithful nurse. Her character is also a loving mother who goes through many emotional challenges, including the painful loss of her son.
Speaking to News24, the actress said the moment still felt unreal to her.
“It hasn’t really sunk in yet,” she told News24. “You receive the nomination, and you just go ‘Thank you’ to the industry for the nod, and you know that you’re in the right direction because it’s been 19 years in the industry and it’s the 19th Saftas.”
She also said the award came at the right time in her life and career.
“It was the right time, and it’s befitting. This is the time for me to receive it, and I’m receiving it now because I might have gotten a big head earlier in my career.”
“I know that accolades are great and it is really awesome to get a nod from the industry,” Menyana continued.
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