Art is a powerful tool which washes away the dust of daily life from our souls. For the multi- talented Wanda Zuma, it is a form of expression, a way of life and a whole lot more.

Popularly known for his role on eTV’s House of Zwide, the award-winning actor, poet and musician is a well of creativity and an artistic genius.

Embracing the elements of his diverse offering, Wanda is a creative who wears many hats and goes by different names.

“It’s characters that I’ve built for myself which give me the freedom to explore different artistic things. Usually when I’m going by the alias of Sir. Blaq, you can expect poetry. When it’s just Blaq, I’m dealing with the music and it’s more raw and candid. Wanda is just the body that is being used to portray all these characters,” he explained.

Acting – a passion from way back…
Growing up in KwaZulu-Natal, Wanda’s upbringing played a huge role in moulding the kind of actor he is today. Navigating the duality of his childhood is what enables him to easily step into any character he is given.

“I was born in Umlazi which is a hood, and I was raised in Bluff which is more of a suburb. Whenever I was in Umlazi, I had to try by all means to fit in and be one of the guys in the hood. When in the suburbs, I also had to switch up and be somebody who does not look out
of place,” he elaborated.

In his younger years, Wanda naturally and subconsciously gravitated towards the arts as a way of getting away from reality. Although he is not the only child, there was a point in his childhood where he was away from his siblings.

“I had to find ways to entertain myself and I would use any and every thing that I could find.”

This is when he started imitating people and tapping deep into his imagination. Unbeknownst to him, the acting seed was planted.

“Even if I had two pens in my hand, I would have a conversation between the two pens. That sort of helped me in story-telling and writing,” he shared.

Since then, he has grown as an actor and artist. His talent, hard work and dedication have placed him in successful theatre plays and television productions.

Although his main focus is currently television, he still holds an undying love for theatre. It gives him the joy of making a story believable in front of a live audience.

Brilliant and breathtaking on-screen talent
On screen, he plays the role of Nkosi Zwide on the eTV drama House of Zwide. Wanda shared that while there are minor similarities between him and Nkosi by virtue of them making use of the same body, there are also vast differences.

“In terms of emotions and how Nkosi deals with things, I always have to dig deep inside to find the emotions of what he is going through and make it believable. This has not always been easy because as Wanda, I am not as in-touch with my emotions as he is. Nkosi is very expressive.”

Additionally, the talented actor shared that being a part of House of Zwide helps him grow on a daily, resulting in his continued learning.

“It is how I’ve learnt to trust my own eye and to trust my own ideas when it comes to my own content.”

Apart from House of Zwide, he has also been part of other television productions including eHostela, Imbewu and Isibaya. He also got to star in Shaka iLembe, which he views as one of his career highlights.

“That was one show that had pretty much the best we have to offer in the country. Being a part of it was very validating for me,” he expressed.

Music, relaxation and magic on the field
When he is not on set or behind the mic, Wanda can be found playing soccer.

“We have a team at House of Zwide that plays every other month, and I have a team that I play with during the week. I grew up playing for a club in Durban and I think I’ve played every position there is. Put me anywhere on the field and I can make it work.”

He is also a huge fan of relaxation and good music.

“The last thing I listened to on my way home was Sjava’s album, Isibuko. That’s usually the type of music I’m listening to. Sjava, Mbuso Khoza and a lot of hip-hop.”

Nasty C and Maglera Doe Boy form part of the South African hip-hop artists he enjoys.

“I listen to people who make good art. If your music is good, I’m listening to it,” he added.

Wanda is watched by millions of viewers each evening. Amongst them are youngsters who are inspired by his work. To those he inspires, he encourages a belief in oneself and one’s offering.

“The fact that you have the idea and the courage means you’ve already won by putting yourself out there. The best you can do from that is to trust yourself and trust the product that you have,” advised the artist.

He also emphasised the importance of not focusing too much on negativity.

“Those who enjoy it will enjoy it, and you will get the satisfaction from that. You don’t have to worry about those who are speaking negatively about what you’re trying to do.”

Teamwork makes the dream work
As he continues to lovingly share his multiple talents in the entertainment industry, Wanda remains a thorough believer in the importance of teamwork.

“There’s no I in team. You need a team for everything that you’re going to do. It just helps to make things easier. But at the same time, you can’t trust everyone so that’s a bit of a catch-22 and you need to find the balance.”

He is currently working on a body of work which is the beautiful amalgamation of different artistic elements.

“It is going to be a series that incorporates music, fashion and film. Little by little, people will begin to understand the whole body of work. The music is going to be accompanied by visuals and everything is going to be cinematic.”

Working alongside his good friend Sipho Zakwe (aka Envee), the pair seek to tap deep into their creativity. Sharing their passion and talents, they anticipate a warm reception.

“I had to bring someone in who understands what I’m trying to do. It’s these two bodies who are coming together and are sort of two sides of the same coin. It’s going to be an amazing journey and I hope everyone will enjoy it.”