Nomalanga Shozi’s journey from ‘Rhythm City’ to leading lady on ‘Black Gold’

RADIO and TV presenter and actress Nomalanga “The Flame” Shozi takes on the lead role of Amandla Zungu on BET Africa’s new telenovela Black Gold.

- OLUTHANDO KETEYI

In the show, Shozi takes on her most ambitious role yet as a principled and passionate daughter whose world is shattered by her father’s murder and a devastating betrayal that forces her into exile.

Speaking to JOL a few days after the show aired, Shozi reflected on how it was “nerve-racking”, watching that first live episode with her loved ones, the people who've seen her go through the early mornings and late nights.

“They get to see this labour of love that we’ve been putting together, and it was just really exciting, but also just very nerve-racking. It was a beautiful night.”

Shozi has had roles on Rhythm City, Roomies, and Adulting, but this is her first lead role.

She has built a strong reputation as a presenter on shows such as BET Breaks and The Sauce, as well as live productions including the 29th South African Music Awards and the Red Carpet at the South African Film and Television Awards.

Acting introduced Shozi to the entertainment industry when she landed the role of Nomalanga on Rhythm City and also found herself dominating in presenting.

Shozi has had a fruitful relationship with BET Africa. In 2018, she was announced as the face of the channel.

“I'm doing both (presenting and acting), and it’s so rewarding, and I’m just so grateful for this moment right now, and for it to be on BET as well is like a 360 moment.