Award-winning actress and humanitarian Nomzamo Mbatha continues to be a shining light in the entertainment industry, using her platform to inspire and empower women both on and off the screen.
In an interview with Daily Sun, the Coming 2 America star opened up about her role as an executive producer on the historical drama Shaka iLembe. She spoke passionately about how she fought behind the scenes to make sure women’s stories were told with honesty, depth, and strength.
Nomzamo, who was born in KwaMashu, KwaZulu-Natal, has built an incredible career from humble beginnings. At just 34 years old, she has become one of South Africa’s most influential entertainment figures, known for her powerful acting roles, her leadership work as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, and her ongoing efforts to break barriers in the global entertainment world.
In Shaka iLembe, which dives deep into the life and legacy of the legendary Zulu king, Nomzamo didn’t just act — she took on a leadership role behind the scenes to ensure the series represented women properly. Speaking about the creative process, she revealed that standing up for the women’s side of the story was not easy, but it was necessary.
“There were fights in the writing room. We know audiences love battles and that there’s a lot of masculine energy in the show, but we had to ask: what about the women? What are their stories? We didn’t want to reduce them to background characters or one-dimensional roles,” she said.
Nomzamo was determined that women in Shaka iLembe would not just be silent figures in the background but would be portrayed as real, powerful, and multi-dimensional people. She made sure their strength and resilience were woven into the heart of the story.
Reflecting further, Nomzamo spoke about the challenges women face when they step into leadership roles, both in the entertainment industry and beyond.
“When women lead with confidence, speak up, or assert their vision, they’re often branded as difficult or arrogant. These labels are used to diminish their power and keep them small. Meanwhile, men displaying the same traits are praised as strong and decisive. It’s a narrative we need to change,” she said.
With her passion, drive, and belief in equality, Nomzamo Mbatha proves once again that she is not just a star on the screen — she’s a true force for change.
