Ayakha Ntunja reflects on her breakthrough role in Youngins

Ayakha Ntunja is one of the stand-out stars in Youngins, where she plays Amo, a sweet yet fiercely determined boarder from rural KwaZulu-Natal.

In October, the Showmax Original’s first trailer for Season 2 topped a million views online in under 24 hours, after Season 1 became one of the 10 most-streamed titles on Showmax since its relaunch in February 2024. Last week, the Olifantsfontein High teen drama was up for Media Award of the Year at The Feather Awards, Africa’s biggest queer award ceremony; Best Newcomer (Kealeboga Masango) at the National Film & TV Awards South Africa; and on the same night, Youngins went on to win Best South African Streaming Series at the Behind The Scenes Awards.

Watch the teaser trailer for Youngins

Ayakha played Thembi in MTV Shuga Down South Season 3, but Amo was her first leading role. With Season 2 of Youngins premiering on Showmax this Friday, 15 November 2024, Xabiso Ngqabe sat down with the breakout star to find out more about how her life has changed and what it was like to reunite with the Olifants Five.

What has been the most rewarding thing about being on Youngins?

Just a year ago, we were auditioning, so it’s amazing to see how much the show has grown. Youngins will always hold a special place in people’s hearts as it brought a fresh perspective to teen dramas. It will be remembered as one of the best for a long time. 

Were you surprised at how the viewers reacted to Amo in Season 1?

At first, a lot of the viewers felt sympathy for Amo. However, as the show progressed, viewers also began to question her decisions. It’s understandable why they might not agree with all her choices; my character is just trying to navigate life, with her own flaws and mistakes. 

How has it been handling all the popularity that comes with being on a show like Youngins?

I haven’t really felt the fame aspect. People often ask me what I mean, but maybe it’s because I’m not particularly focused on that. However, I’m extremely grateful for the support I’ve received. I see the messages, I see the positive things people say, and I’m so thankful. It’s really heartfelt, and I don’t take it for granted. Even as I see my followers growing, I never let it get to me. It’s all about success and gratitude.

What was it like reuniting with the Olifants Five for Season 2?

It was great! It’s always fun when we’re together as the Olifants Five. For me, that friendship is the one thing holding a lot of things together at the school. Despite everything happening, we still understand each other and come together.

How does Amo evolve in Season 2?

Coming into the new season, Amo has grown a backbone. She knows where to position herself, and at the same time, she knows how to stand up for herself. The big issue in Season 1 was her being pushed left, right, and centre without understanding the ins and outs of Olifantsfontein. Now, as she enters Season 2, she’s getting the hang of things and starts to understand what it’s all about.

How is the relationship between Amo and Buhle?

All I’m going to say is, “It’s about to go down.” I don’t even want to spoil it, but we definitely go through some turmoil.

What have you learnt from portraying Amo?

One thing I’ve learned from playing Amo is how outspoken and outgoing she is as a person. Despite everything happening in her life, she’s still trying to escape her own world by helping everyone else. I think we often do that as a coping mechanism and to make friends. 

Through her story, I’ve learned to be patient and understand that not everything will happen at the same time or at the pace we want, but it’s important to keep standing up for what you believe in.

What advice would you give Amo in this love triangle she finds herself in?

I would advise her to look at situations from the perspective of, “Who is going to help her grow?” One thing about Amo is that she always wants to help the next person, which is great, but now the question is, “Who is going to give that back to her?” We’ve seen how she gives a lot but gets nothing in return.

How has this show helped you as a performer?

It has helped by giving me a better understanding of movements, gestures, and the placement of my character in different scenarios. With Amo, I’ve learned to dive deeper into my character without feeling like it has to be anything extreme. Instead, I focus on understanding how Amo feels in various situations. Like: if everyone is happy and laughing, how is she feeling at that moment? Where is she mentally at that time? This approach has taught me that the most important thing is knowing where your character is going and where they’re coming from. Before, I used to approach scenes one by one, but now I understand that it’s about the overall pace and flow, ensuring that when someone is watching, they don’t miss a beat.

What makes you excited about this season?

I’m really excited to see how people will perceive each character, and I’m also looking forward to everyone experiencing the incredible scenes we’ve filmed for Season 2. There are some moments that left me in awe, and I can’t wait for the audience to witness them. The show just keeps getting better and better. 

What people are saying about Youngins

A wild ride full of fun, danger, sex and violence. – Aaron Akinyemi, BBC 

An unvarnished view of a generation that is defining itself right in front of our eyes. – Alyssia Birjalal, IOL

A nerve-wracking drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat. – Thapelo Ramorobi, City Press

Youngins cast a fun light into the world of Mzansi’s high schoolers and touched on a variety of topics that many teenagers in the country face. – Ntombi Khulu, True Love Magazine