Actress Sivenathi Mabuya commands attention on the latest digital cover of Sowetan S Mag, showcasing her fierce new look. Known for her dramatic roles, particularly as Xolile Langa in Scandal! Mabuya is now taking a bold leap into comedy with her latest role as Zoleka Dzana in Netflix’s romantic comedy How To Ruin Love: The Proposal. In an exclusive interview, she shares insights about her career shift, the challenges she faced, and her personal journey.
Reflecting on her first Netflix lead role, Mabuya admitted it was a nerve-wracking experience. “It was something I always wanted to do,” she said. “I knew it was going to be tough, and I was going to be scared and nervous, but in a good way. Hopefully, it’s one of many.”
Transitioning to comedy was a significant change for Mabuya, who is renowned for her dramatic prowess. Despite not considering herself naturally funny, she attributed her success in the role to the script and getting into character. “The reception has been so beautiful, and I’m incredibly happy and excited for everyone to see it,” she shared. “Playing Zoleka was extremely challenging, but I was glad to play such a character.”
Mabuya found a personal connection with Zoleka, who, like her, speaks isiXhosa and hails from the Eastern Cape. “She reminds me of an aunt or sister,” Mabuya explained. “To pull off a convincing act, I had to allow myself to be ugly, hilarious, crazy, and just over the top. I tapped into every emotion to bring Zoleka to life.”
In her personal life, Mabuya is nothing like her comedic character. She credits her husband, Aphiwe Bukani, as her biggest support system. “He has more faith in me than I have in myself,” she said. “Our marriage has taught me so much about love and myself, showing me the many faces love has and the sacrifices one makes.”
Mabuya’s journey in the industry began with roles in commercials and a lokshin bioskop before landing her big break on Scandal!. “Before commercials, my first role was on a lokshin bioskop, then I acted in High Rollers and did a Simba ad,” she recalled. “I knew being an actor for commercials wasn’t part of the plan; I just used it to showcase my versatility, but I knew television acting was my niche.”
Recalling her time on Scandal! , Mabuya described it as an unbelievable experience. “Working with stars like Hlomla Dandala and Lusanda Mbane was incredible,” she said. “My first day was also Ayanda Daweti’s first day, and we were both shaking and terrified.”
Mabuya remains close to her Scandal! family, especially Lusanda Mbane. “She recently told me how proud she is of me and how far I’ve come,” she said.
Growing up in the Eastern Cape, Mabuya always enjoyed role playing. “We didn’t have drama classes but had plays and talent shows,” she explained. “I was always that girl who everyone would choose to emcee or lead because of my love for the stage.”
After matriculating at 17, Mabuya enrolled in varsity but soon realised public relations wasn’t her passion. With her mother’s support, she successfully corresponded for three years before dropping out in her last year when she landed her big break on Scandal!.
Mabuya’s journey from the Eastern Cape to Netflix is a testament to her talent and determination, and her fans eagerly await her new venture, confident in her ability to shine in any role.
