MBABANE – Local actor Manqoba Khumalo has been nominated for Best Newcomer at the prestigious National Film and Television Awards (NFTA) South Africa.
The National Film & TV Awards South Africa (NFTA South Africa) is a prestigious event dedicated to celebrating and promoting exceptional talent in South Africa’s vibrant film and television industry. Khumalo has been nominated for the best Newcomer in the series Emzini, a family legacy where he plays the role of Junior Nkosi.
For Khumalo, this nomination marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. The nomination, which recognises emerging talent across the television industry, has placed Khumalo among the most promising new faces of the year. It is his first industry nomination for performance and comes after only his first year on television. Khumalo confirmed the nomination this week and appealed to the public for support through online voting. He said voting is free and accessible via the official awards link and expressed gratitude to those who have supported his journey.
He stated that the nomination holds deep personal significance. “The nomination means a lot to me as it is my first for performance in the industry and being recognised as one of the Best Newcomers of the Year is a testament to how hard I’ve worked to arrive at this point and this is only my first year on television, it means the world to me,” he said emphasising that he is still establishing himself in a highly competitive industry. The actor, who has quickly gained attention for his compelling on-screen presence, said the journey has not been without challenges. However, he noted that consistency and self-belief have carried him through.
His rise has been followed closely by local audiences, many of whom have praised his natural talent and dedication. Beyond his personal achievement, Khumalo’s nomination is being celebrated as a win for the Eswatini creative sector. His recognition on an international platform highlights the growing potential of Swati talent and the importance of supporting local artists who are making strides beyond the country’s borders. Speaking about his experience, Khumalo offered words of encouragement to aspiring creatives who may be hesitant to pursue their dreams. “I’d say to someone who is afraid of pursuing their dreams that the truth is you have to force people to care about your dream, because if you don’t care enough others won’t support you,” he said adding that if one does not show commitment to their own vision, others will not offer support.
The National Film & TV Awards South Africa was proudly produced by the National Film Academy, a renowned institution that originated in the United Kingdom. Established in 1999, the National Film Academy has grown into a global entity, boasting over 5.7 million members across 15 countries. The Academy is celebrated for its flagship events, including the National Film & TV Awards South Africa in the UK and the National Film & TV Awards in the United States and Asia. Our mission is to recognise and honour the achievements of local artists, enhance their visibility, and connect South African talent with a global audience.
