Mandisa Nduna on playing a VIP bodyguard on Showmax's Empini

Mandisa “Zulu Mecca” Nduna is no stranger to the world of film, television, and music. With notable roles in projects like Blood Psalms and Sew The Winter to My Skin, as well as a career in hip hop that earned her a nomination at the SA Hip Hop Awards, Mandisa has consistently proven herself as one of South Africa’s most versatile artists.

Her latest role in the Showmax Original Empini is no exception. In Empini, Mandisa plays Mbali, a determined, dangerous, and sharp VIP security guard at Mkhonto Protection Services who becomes a close associate to Ndoni, played by Nambitha Ben-Mazwi.

Watch the trailer for Empini S2

Zibuyile Dladla speaks to Mandisa about her role in the world of Empini.

What was it like for you to play the role of Mbali, considering it's quite different from your previous roles?

It was a refreshing change to play a character like Mbali. It allowed me to step into the action world - chasing bad guys and protecting important people. I was especially drawn to the opportunity to handle guns, something I don't do in real life. 

As a masculine-presenting actress playing a masculine-presenting character, were you hesitant about taking on a role that might be too similar to who you are in real life?

Not really. For me, playing a masculine-presenting woman in a masculine role doesn’t mean the character is like me. Mbali is younger and more serious, especially given her role as a VIP security guard. She’s not as playful or relaxed as I am. I made sure not to make her too much like me; I wanted her to be distinct. I didn’t want her to be too urban, since I am, so I gave her a more serious tone and had her speak more in vernacular. I also tried to make her posture and walk more disciplined, as I tend to slouch. I felt confident I could mould her into someone very different from myself.

Although Mbali plays more of a supportive character, can you tell us more about her background?

Mbali has a troubled past: she wasn’t focused and didn’t get into university. Her family life wasn’t ideal, so she had to find a way to escape. With university not being an option, she found herself working as a VIP security guard. In Season 2, we see how determined she is to save Mkhonto Protection Services (MPS) because it means everything to her. If she loses this job, she knows her life will become even more difficult. She dedicates herself to the company, knowing that its success will improve her life as well.

If you didn’t play Mbali, which character would you have wanted to portray?

I think I would’ve loved to play Sandile Mahlangu’s character, Jabu, the IT guy. He’s a bit nerdy but cool, and I think it would’ve been fun to take on that role. It would be interesting to see what that character would look like coming from me, given my appearance.

What kind of physical preparation did this role require?

I’m quite an active person; I used to do CrossFit and have done roles that required physical strength and agility. I try to maintain that in my personal life by going to the gym regularly. Since I’m smaller in stature, I focused on improving my mobility and strength to make my physicality on screen look convincing. When playing a character like Mbali, who faces threats, it’s important to portray a sense of capability and confidence, especially in physical scenes like throwing punches.

What kind of research did you do around private security guards?

I did a lot of research, especially about bodyguards like the Amazonian Guard, an all-female elite group that protected Muammar Gaddafi. Mbali is like them - unassuming yet dangerous. I wanted to show that a smaller, less physically imposing person can still be a highly capable bodyguard. My research focused on agility, speed, and precision with weapons - traits that Mbali embodies.

What’s your take on safety on set, especially when dealing with real guns?

Safety on set is crucial. While handling real guns with blank bullets can be exciting, it’s essential for everyone to stay aware of their surroundings. Emotions can run high during stunts and fight scenes, so extra caution is needed. We all need to ensure we’re not just focused on the performance but also on the safety of everyone involved.

Empini viewers love the Mkhonto character, played by MJ Sedibo. Why do you think he’s gained so much popularity despite his cringe-worthy moments?

Honestly, I love Mkhonto too [laughs], because I know people like him in real life. As a rapper, I often meet people who have the same energy as Mkhonto - passionate but without the skills. He’s relatable because he doesn’t need to do what he does; his family is well-off, but he does it for the fun of it. His delivery and attitude add a comedic touch. It’s funny because he’s not trying to escape the “hood” like most rappers, yet he acts like he’s living that life. I’m excited to see how people respond to his character’s growth in this season.

Why should people watch Season 2 of Empini?

If you're looking for something fresh and different, Empini is the show for you. It offers a new world with amazing talent, exciting twists, and compelling characters.

Empini Season 2 is now streaming on Showmax with new episodes on Tuesdays.