South African actress Nefisa Mkhabela is looking back with pride and gratitude on her remarkable journey since joining the hit e.TV telenovela House of Zwide at just 19 years old. Now 23, the rising star says she’s grown both as a performer and as a young woman, crediting her castmates and experiences on set for shaping her career.
In a heartfelt interview with Drum, Nefisa reflected on her four-year run playing Onalerona, a role that launched her into the spotlight and allowed her to share the screen with some of South Africa’s most seasoned actors, including Mduduzi Mabaso and Winnie Ntshaba.
“The journey has been beyond anything I could ever describe,” she shared. “I’ve learned so much from all the amazing people I’m blessed to share a set with, and I’m still eager to learn more each day.”
An Emotional Goodbye to Shalate Sekhabi
One of the most emotional chapters in her House of Zwide journey was saying goodbye to her close friend and co-star Shalate Sekhabi, who recently exited the series. Shalate played Shoki, the best friend of Nefisa’s character on-screen—and a dear friend off-screen as well.
“Her departure was bittersweet,” Nefisa admitted. “She was the first friend I ever made on set. We were inseparable in the beginning.”
The two stars formed a strong bond during the early days of filming, and Nefisa says she will miss their daily routines and shared moments on set.
“Working on long-running shows, you get used to a routine… What I’ll miss most is not being able to see each other as often as we used to.”
Despite the sadness, she’s confident in Shalate’s future.
“I knew this was the beginning of many beautiful opportunities for her… God knows exactly what He’s doing in her life.”
From Law Aspirations to Acting Success
Although she’s thriving in the spotlight today, Nefisa revealed that acting wasn’t always the obvious path.
“If I weren’t an actress, I would probably be practising law by now. If not, I’d be working behind the scenes in the film industry.”
She also acknowledged her parents’ early hesitations about her career but said they’ve since become her biggest supporters.
“They are happy now, that’s for sure. More than anything, they’re proud that I’m thriving in my field.”
What’s Next for Nefisa Mkhabela?
With four years of prime-time experience under her belt and a fast-growing fanbase, Nefisa says she’s just getting started.
“There’s still so much I want to achieve. I can’t even begin to name them all. That’s between myself and the Lord,” she said, hinting at bigger plans ahead.
As she continues to dazzle viewers on House of Zwide and beyond, one thing is clear: Nefisa Mkhabela is a force to watch in the South African entertainment industry.
