Actress Sannah “Sana” Mchunu, best known for her role as Zodwa in Gomora, recently reflected on her rise to fame and the surprising journey that led her to become a household name. Speaking at her childhood friend’s memorial service at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg on Wednesday, 15 January, the 52-year-old actress shared an emotional and inspiring story about how she ended up in the entertainment industry.
In an interview with Daily Sun, Sana spoke candidly about her difficult upbringing, revealing that she became a mother at a young age and faced many struggles. “I didn’t have a good upbringing, and I had kids at a young age,” she said. “There were times when I locked myself in the house because I was ashamed of my situation.”
But everything changed one day when she received a life-changing visit from her childhood friend, the late music legend Winnie Khumalo. “One day, Winnie visited my house. We were neighbours, and she had heard people talking about my return home. She asked me what I was doing for a living,” Sana recalled. “I told her I didn’t have matric, and I would appreciate any job, even if it was just a cleaning job.”
That conversation would prove to be the turning point in Sana’s life. Winnie, who had always been supportive of her, suggested they go see DJ Oskido and some other people in the entertainment industry. “While we were on our way, Winnie said we should stop at some auditions she knew about,” Sana explained. “It was a long queue, and Winnie asked me to hold the line for her. She couldn’t make it in time, and when she left, the people at the auditions asked me to audition instead.”
Sana admits that at first, she was hesitant. “I told them I didn’t have matric, and I wasn’t even a celebrity, but they insisted I give it a try,” she said. To her surprise, she was selected for a role. “I ended up getting the role, and that was the start of my journey in acting,” she shared.
Reflecting on how far she’s come, Sana credited Winnie Khumalo for being the catalyst that set her on the path to stardom. “If it wasn’t for Winnie asking me to accompany her that day, I wouldn’t be the star I am today,” Sana said. “I’m where I am right now because of Winnie, and I thank her for everything.”
Today, Sana Mchunu’s role as Zodwa in Gomora has earned her widespread recognition and made her a fan favourite on Mzansi Magic’s popular telenovela.
