After the death of her son in 2015 she took it easy by working on a book and motivating women in difficult situations. Now Florence Masebe is back in the spotlight as the star of a brand-new drama series, iKani – South Africa’s first Ndebele series, which aired in September on SABC1.
DRUM caught up with the actress.
Describe your character
She is strong and fearless. She can stand up to pretty much anyone. She’s the last person you’d want to take on. She’s the kind of person who will stop at nothing to protect her family and their wealth.
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What’s it like acting in the first Ndebele series?
With regards to the language, I do have to watch myself since it’s not my first, second or even third language. I wouldn’t really call it a challenge but I’m being stripped bare to portray this role.
How important is it to portray different languages and cultures in the industry?
All cultures and languages are equal, and they should all have equal exposure, especially on our public airwaves.
How many languages do you speak in total?
Um … wow. Twelve plus!
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What do you think of the importance of South Africans learning to speak other languages and learning about other cultures?
I’ll be speaking in a position of me having an interest in every indigenous culture that we have in the country. I think those who don’t see the importance are losing out on something special but I wouldn’t be one to force people to do things they don’t want to try. I think we achieve social cohesion when we know more about one another.
How did you learn all these languages?
I have no idea but at some point in life I encountered people who spoke them and I needed to speak to them in a language they understood.