Two Eastern Cape actors star in new film, ‘Entabeni’

Two Eastern Cape actors have graced our screens in a new film, Entabeni, aired on Mzansi Magic 161.  

Dumisa Sakwe, a TikTok sensation and emerging actor from Cofimvaba, and seasoned Mthatha-born actor and presenter Gcina Mdikane, said they had always believed they were destined for greater things.

Starring alongside the likes of well-known actress Zenande Mfenyana, the duo secured roles in the new film which made its debut on Freedom Day. 

Sakwe, 25, portrays Nkosi, a young man who refuses to undergo the traditional rite of passage of circumcision and instead wishes to defy his parents by seeking medical assistance.

Meanwhile, Mdikane, 32, plays Cebo, a rebellious young man who staunchly adheres to cultural beliefs.

Sakwe, a drama student from City Varsity, said working with an experienced cast was not as difficult as he had thought it would be.   

“Working alongside seasoned actors was an amazing experience for me.

“I had a lot of fun and I also learnt a lot from them. 

“They guided me and made me feel comfortable and allowed me to believe in my choices when it comes to acting.

“It was not intimidating and as difficult as I thought it would be, they really pushed me through and had my hand through the entire time,” he said. 

Sakwe said he used TikTok to get exposure.

“I use social media to get myself out there because I do not believe in a traditional way, you also have to push and show people what you can do.” 

The young actor said he always knew he was “made for TV”. 

“I saw it coming. I knew one day it was going to happen but it was just not knowing when.

“I didn’t let anything stop me even though stepping up the ladder in the industry isn’t easy but I have always known I was made to win,” he said. 

Mdikane, who discovered his passion for acting within the walls of a church, said landing his role was a dream come true. 

He credits his late grandmother, Theodora Mdikane, for fostering his talent.

Over the years, the actor has graced screens in productions such as Generations and Gomora. .

Mdikane said he resonated with his character in Entabeni.

“The casting director of Entabeni saw the script and had me in mind.

“I remember him sending me two character briefs to audition for and I was drawn to Cebo’s character.” 

The presenter of Daily Thetha, aired on SABC 1, said portraying Cebo was not a difficult task. 

“Everything that Cebo stands for is something I stand for as well.

“He takes culture very seriously, so when I read that, and coming from the Eastern Cape, I realised this was the story I wanted to tell,” he said. 

He said when he was called to audition he was optimistic. 

“When I was called back again, I could see everyone was anxious but I told myself I am here to do it,” he said. 

The 32-year-old said getting acting gigs was not a surprise.

“I did think I was going to be where I am because I was given this gift at a very young age, I had bigger plans for myself,” Mdikane said.

“I used to think about days like this, and finding myself where I am at is God’s testimony, saying I shouldn’t stop dreaming.

“I am still going to do more than I am doing now.”

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