Mandla N chats with KDanielles Media about where his passion for entertainment stems from and his success tips for young people
Founder and creative director of Black Brain Pictures Mandla N recently bade farewell to his award-winning telenovela DiepCity on March 3 after 240 episodes. He reflects on what success means to him and gives us his tips
Take us back to your childhood, what attracted you to the entertainment industry, and what made you consider a career in it?
I was a loud and bubbly kid, a class clown, I went to a township school, and there were a lot of us in a class. In grade 9 I joined the drama team because I was loud and bubbly. I ended up going to AFDA and studied film and started acting and directing.
You have been in the entertainment industry for a long time, what have you learnt about it that you feel you wouldn’t have known if you were in a different career field, and how have you managed to create longevity in your industry?
It’s a lot of hard work, it takes passion and late nights to be number one. It’s difficult to get a show commissioned as a producer, I put in my all. One show can go on for years like City Ses’la. I created City Ses’la when I was 19, I put in my entire budget so I that I could get the best first season. Always keep it fresh.
How would you define success and do you feel you have reached it?
I’m in the process of gaining success. I’m running a business, my kids are studying, once my kids are done studying and done with university I would have achieved success. I can create content that can appeal to the market, my content is now conscious and moves people. I’ve just finished a blockbuster in nine days now, I’m editing that. I push myself every day and every year. I’m not waiting for a Hollywood budget. I’m in the journey of being successful.
Do you believe in mentorship for one to be successful? If so, who played a crucial role in the success of your career and what career advice did you receive that you still apply today?
Mentorship is a big thing. If you can do it go for it. You must learn from people who have done it before you. My late mom believed in me, you need someone to believe in you, to drive you, my mom was my cheerleader, she was proud of my work and celebrated my success. Today, I celebrate great scenes with my actors, that build their confidence in acting out their role, it will build anyone up to nail their character. Someone must believe in your skill and celebrate your hard work and craft.
What is the one thing you would like to be remembered for?
My stories, my craft, my passion, I give my all. I work hard. My peers have recognised me and I’m thankful for that.
READ MORE: My Journey To Success With Mandla N
What are your success tips for young people?
People work with people they like and respect, be nice, be human, and be decent towards others. The more you learn you’ll realise how little you know, when you are relaxing someone else is working hard. No one remembers number two so always strive to be number one. Passion – passion should be the reason that wakes you up and gets you going. Do something you love.
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