Deli Malinga, the celebrated actress best known for her compelling performance in Mzansi Magic’s popular telenovela “Umkhokha: The Curse,” has publicly appealed for sponsorship to attend the upcoming Ladies of the Media Awards in Kenya. The nomination for “African Female Actor of the Year” represents a significant milestone in Ms. Malinga’s career and a testament to her dedication and talent.
Taking to her Facebook account, Ms. Malinga expressed her gratitude for the nomination, emphasizing the honor of representing her hometown of Umlazi, the “Umkhokha: The Curse” production team, Mzansi channel, and South Africa as a whole on the African stage. However, she also highlighted the financial burden associated with attending the prestigious event, noting that participation would be “fully on me,” and expressing her desire to secure sponsors for the trip to Kenya.
This appeal comes on the heels of Ms. Malinga’s recent victory at the Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film and Television Awards, where she was awarded “Best Actress” for her portrayal of the complex and challenging character of MaMzobe in “Umkhokha: The Curse.”
In an interview with Sowetan, the actress expressed her joy and validation from the award, highlighting the significance of being recognized for her craft and overcoming the challenges she faced throughout her career. This recent accolade further solidifies Ms. Malinga’s position as a prominent figure in the South African acting landscape, building upon her previous SAFTA win for Best Supporting Actress in a telenovela for her role as MaNgema in Redemption.
“Umkhokha: The Curse,” which concluded its two-year run on February 28th, captivated audiences with its intricate storylines and talented ensemble cast, including Sibongile Ngubane, Nay Maps, and Hope Mbhele. The series, born from the original “Umkhokha,” garnered significant praise for its compelling narrative and the performances of its actors, further cementing Ms. Malinga’s reputation as a versatile and impactful performer.
Ms. Malinga’s plea for sponsorship underscores the financial realities faced by many artists, even those recognized for their talent and achievements. Her nomination serves as a point of pride for South African entertainment and provides a valuable opportunity to showcase local talent on a broader African platform. Individuals or organizations interested in supporting Deli Malinga’s participation in the Ladies of the Media Awards are encouraged to reach out to her directly via her social media platforms. Her attendance would undoubtedly be a fitting recognition of her contributions to the industry and a source of inspiration for aspiring actors across the continent.
