Phola– A wave of excitement was buzzing in the air in surrounding areas of Phola as aspiring actors flocked to Makause Combined School to audition for an upcoming Netflix series.
The auditions held on Saturday, 12 July 2025, were hosted by Gejile, a local creative organisation known for promoting grassroots talent and creating platforms for underrepresented youth.
The auditions attracted not only hopeful performers but also known figures in South African entertainment, local leaders, and law enforcement came to support the initiative.
Among the most revered guests was legendary actor Jerry Phele, popularly known as “Mofokeng” from the classic sitcom Emzini Wezinsizwa. Speaking exclusively to Highveld Chronicle he reflected on how such initiatives can change lives.
“When I started acting, there were very few opportunities for people in the townships. Today, seeing this kind of platform reaching Phola makes me emotional,” Phele said. “I saw talent today that reminded me of where I began. My message to these young people is simple: stay focused, respect the industry, and don’t ever stop learning. Even if you don’t get selected now, your time will come.”
Joining Phele was Amos Mnguni, known for his powerful role in the SABC1 drama Uzalo. “There is real fire here,” said Mnguni. “I saw boys and girls today who could easily hold their own in front of any camera. We need to stop thinking that talent only lives in the big cities. These rural and township youth are ready. What they need is investment, access, and continued support.”
The event wasn’t just about acting, it was about inspiration. This was best captured by Lwandle Sithole, a finalist in the 2025 Miss Teen Emalahleni pageant, who delivered an impassioned speech to the audience.
“We all have talents. Whether it’s acting, singing, dancing or speaking. Your gift is valid,” Lwandle said. “This audition proves that you don’t need to leave your town to chase your dreams. The dream can come to you. But we have to be prepared, focused, and ready when it does.”
Representing the SoGuje Ndzundza Royal House, Chief Mhlekwa Mahlangu, extended his gratitude to Gejile and Netflix for bringing such a life-changing opportunity to the youth of Phola.
“Too often our children are left idle during school holidays, and that’s when they fall into dangerous habits [such as] substance abuse, crime, peer pressure,” Chief Ndzundza said. “We wish this could happen every holiday season to keep them engaged, hopeful, and driven. We must build the creative economy right here in our villages and townships.”
Ensuring the event ran smoothly and safely was Sergeant Sipho Ntokozo Mtshweni from Phola Police Station. “I was also touched by the discipline and passion shown by these young people,” Mtshweni said. “It reminds us that policing is not just about enforcement, it’s also about community support and protecting.”
The Gejile team expressed gratitude for the turnout and vowed to continue bringing talent-search initiatives to underrepresented communities.
