Nomzamo Mbatha, the talented South African actress known for her captivating performances, achieved another milestone this week by winning the Best African Actress award at the esteemed 2024 Septimius Awards held in Amsterdam. Mbatha currently stars as Nandi in the popular Mzansi Magic series Shaka iLembe, a role that has not only showcased her acting prowess but also solidified her place in the spotlight of international cinema.
The Septimius Awards is a notable international ceremony that celebrates excellence in films, documentaries, short films, animations, television shows, and screenplays. As per the organization’s vision, its goal is to highlight and honor films and projects from around the globe, granting awards to the top nominees during its annual event. “What makes the Septimius Awards unique is our approach to three categories: Best Actress, Best Actor, and Best Film. Unlike most conventional award ceremonies, we have decided to split these three categories by continent. This creates a greater global representation of talent,” the organization explains on its website. This innovative structure not only diversifies representation in the film industry but also elevates the recognition of talent from underrepresented regions.
Mbatha’s outstanding performance in Shaka iLembe has drawn acclaim from audiences and critics alike, reinforcing her reputation as a formidable force in the industry. In addition to her role in the Mzansi Magic series, she has appeared in notable films such as Coming 2 America and Assassin (2023), alongside prominent actors like Bruce Willis. Her versatility and dedication to her craft are evident in her performances, making her a deserving recipient of this honor.
Celebrating her win, Mbatha took to Instagram to share her joy and gratitude with her followers. “Coming back home with a little extra weight in my luggage. God’s dream for my life is pretty cool to witness. Thankful for the spirit of surrender and hard work: to trust in the journey and believe in the kept promises,” she expressed in her heartfelt caption. She extended her thanks to the Septimius Awards, Bomb Productions, MultiChoice, the viewers of Shaka iLembe, her directors, and her language coach. Furthermore, she emphasized the collaborative spirit behind her success, acknowledging the entire cast and crew of 200 creatives who helped bring the show to life and the hundreds of background actors who contribute to the magic on screen.
In her moment of triumph, Mbatha also thanked her family and friends for their unwavering support, stating, “who allow me the space to be in a cocoon when I’m creating and who hold my hand when I doubt myself.” This sentiment reflects the importance of a strong support system in the highly competitive and often challenging entertainment industry.
The ceremony also saw Hollywood star Cuba Gooding Jr. honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award, highlighting the global significance of the event. Notably, Shaka iLembe triumphed in the Best Costume Design category, with Sheli Masondo receiving accolades for her exceptional work.
Nomzamo Mbatha’s win at the 2024 Septimius Awards not only celebrates her individual accomplishments but also serves as a beacon of recognition for African talent on the global stage. As the industry evolves, it is clear that voices from diverse backgrounds are crucial in crafting the narratives that shape our world. With her continued dedication and artistry, Mbatha is undoubtedly paving the way for future generations of African storytellers and performers.