Deli Malinga, a celebrated actress, proudly shares her experiences as the newly crowned African Female Actor of the Year, a prestigious accolade bestowed at the Women in Media Awards.

Brimming with pride, Malinga tells Saturday Star that this honour is more than just a title; it motivates her to strive for excellence in her career.

“It put me at another level; I can't drop the ball after such a huge recognition. Imagine being given an African crown that doesn’t match the standard.”

While this is a significant milestone for the acclaimed actress, she says the path to this recognition was not without its hurdles.

Upon receiving news of her nomination in Ghana, she faced a daunting reality: funding her trip to the awards.

“When she told me it was legit, but sadly, everything was on me to get there. It was very clear to me that I was not going at all,” Malinga reflected.

In a vivid portrayal of the struggles many artists encounter, she turned to social media for help, posting a heartfelt video requesting donations. The response was mixed; while some negativity surfaced, many rallied behind her, wishing her well.

“I never gave up, and then I posted a video on social media asking for donations to go to Ghana (which didn't sit well with other people), but others were positive, wishing me luck. That video went viral with different emotions from people, then Sister Nisa from KZN Film called me to find out about the whole thing and started assisting me with other people's numbers as well. The ff. On Saturday, I was introduced to Sister Fikiswa from KZN Tourism, who listened to my story and started making calls for me to get help,” she explained.

She says her journey to Ghana opened her eyes to a world beyond her own. “She also shares her biggest highlight was when she saw their style of living and the conditions and realised their currency was bigger than ours and witnessed their level of crime rate where you drive around with your purse/bag on the seat (windows open) and nothing happens. The hospitality of the people at large,” she shared, filled with gratitude for the hospitality from the Ghanaian people.

She also recounted her experience of winning Best Actress in TV at the Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film and TV Awards. “That was the first time being recognised in my hometown, and it changed how people view me. Since that day, I walk tall knowing that my hard work has earned me respect in the industry," she said.

With her sights set high, Malinga embraces the future with fierce determination. “My dreams are big. A lot is coming up, and it doesn’t hurt to also try new things while acting,” she expressed, highlighting her ambition and willingness to innovate in her craft.

However, she urges newcomers to the industry to do their research and understand the realities of acting. "It’s not all glitter and glamour as it may look. Other than that, it's doable. Doing something you are passionate about makes you tolerate and stay strong and survive even when storms come,” she advised, serving as a beacon of hope for aspiring actors.

anita.nkonki@inl.co.za

Saturday Star