South African actress, UN Goodwill Ambassador, and media personality Nomzamo Mbatha is making waves on the global stage. The star recently took to social media to share the exciting news that she has won an award at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival, held in Cannes, France, from 13 to 24 May 2025.
Known as the most prestigious film festival in the world, Cannes showcases new films from around the globe, including dramas, comedies, and documentaries. This year, Mbatha was proud to present the hit South African series Shaka iLembe to an international audience.
Sharing her joy online, she posted: “So incredibly honored to not only screen SHAKA ILEMBE at Cannes Film Festival in front of a global audience but to also receive this incredible award. We are the ones we have been waiting for. Remaining thankful and in awe.”
Nomzamo Mbatha was awarded for being one of the Top 100 Women in Cinema, a major recognition of her impact in the film and television industry. Her fans, fellow actors, and followers flooded her social media with congratulatory messages.
One message read, “This is a huge milestone Nomzamo. So proud of you and the entire Shaka Ilembe team.” Another added, “Congratulations Mama! Another one!”
Mbatha stars as Queen Nandi in Shaka iLembe, a powerful drama that tells the story of the legendary Zulu king, Shaka. The show has gained a large following in South Africa and beyond. After a successful first season, fans can look forward to more. The second season of Shaka iLembe will premiere on Sunday, 15 June at 20:00 on Mzansi Magic Channel 161.
Nomzamo’s success didn’t just stop at Cannes. In August 2024, she was awarded Best African Actress at the prestigious Septimius Awards in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. She received this award for her incredible performance as Queen Nandi in Shaka iLembe. The Septimius Awards, held at the beautiful Tuschinski Theatre, is known for celebrating the best in filmmaking and storytelling from around the world.
With two major international awards under her belt in less than a year, Nomzamo Mbatha continues to shine as one of South Africa’s brightest stars in global cinema.
