Kadia Banyini on his breakthrough role as Mazambane in Youngins

In the first nine episodes of Youngins S2, Kadia Banyini has become the teen drama’s undeniable scene-stealer as Mazambane, the troublemaker and bully at Olifantsfontein High who’s unapologetically himself. 

Recently named Best South African Streaming Series at the Behind the Scenes Awards, Youngins has set the streets buzzing, with Season 2 racking up the most-first day views of any title on Showmax since the African streamer’s relaunch in February in partnership with Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky. This after #YounginsShowmaxS2 trended at #1 on X on its launch day and its trailer topped a million views in under 24 hours online. 

Watch the trailer for Youngins S2

To find out more, Xabiso Ngqabe sat down with the 19-year-old rising star from Dobsonville Gardens in Soweto.

How did you feel booking this role?

After my part in the Mzansi Magic movie Indoda Must, booking Youngins felt like a breakthrough – a recognition of my talent and a sign that there’s so much more room for growth. Just last year, I was studying through Star Quality Creative Arts, and by the grace of God, I landed this role right before finishing my course. 

Tell us about the character you’re playing in Youngins?

I play Mazambane, a kasi boy and troublemaker from Olifantsfontein. He loves girls but never manages to win them over. A class clown and relentless bully, Mazambane always keeps everyone on their toes.

Are there any similarities between you and your character?

There’s a lot of me in Mazambane – except for the part where he’s failing at school! Like him, I’m from kasi. We both don’t take kindly to being taken for granted. We’re outspoken, confident, and maybe a little arrogant at times, but that’s just part of the charm.

How was watching yourself on screen for the first time?

I remember when I watched myself for the first time, I was alone and I kept thinking about how nervous I was when we shot the scenes. When I watched it, it felt surreal. Since then it’s been so great. My family is proud of me and my friends are happy to see me doing what I love.

What have you learnt from playing this character?

I’ve learned how important it is not to judge people based on how they present themselves. There’s so much depth to this character, and he’s invited me into his world, a truly incredible experience. Portraying him has been nothing short of amazing.

Since the start of S2, we see Mazambane more often than before. 

In Season 1, viewers got a glimpse of him, but they didn’t see the full picture. Season 2 is where he truly comes to life and shows not just his goofy, carefree side, but the other layers that make him who he is. I wouldn’t say Mazambane has changed or grown, but beneath the clowning, he knows when to get serious and draw the line on making light of personal matters. 

How was it reuniting with your co-stars?

It was an amazing experience. Every day, I was excited to go to set because of the incredible people I worked with. It felt more like home than just a job. Even off set, we hang out all the time – we’re like family.

It’s no secret that Youngins is a phenomenon. How has being part of the hit show changed your life?

Youngins has changed my life in a good way, introducing my craft to people who didn’t know me before. It’s a big platform and an incredible opportunity to tell stories that resonate with my experiences as a young person. The journey has been amazing.

What do you think viewers will enjoy the most this season?

A lot! Credit to the writers that not only entertain but also tackle important issues young people face today. What happens in Youngins is mostly things happening in our schools, so the young people relate. 

Stream Youngins S2 now on Showmax, with new episodes every Friday.