Zenande Mfenyana nominated for SAFTA Best Supporting Actress for Inimba
Actress Zenande Mfenyana portrays Thumeka on Mzansi Magic drama "Inimba".
Image: Facebook/Mzansi Magic
South African actress Zenande Mfenyana has added a significant accolade to her illustrious career, as she secures a nomination at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTA) for Best Supporting Actress in a Telenovela for her role as Thumeka Mabandla in the highly acclaimed series Inimba Season 1.
Inimba is a telenovela that follows the lives of a close-knit family as they navigate love, ambition, secrets, and rivalries, blending modern challenges with traditional values. Its gripping storylines and relatable characters have captured the attention of viewers nationwide, sparking conversations and memes across social media and establishing the show as a standout telenovela in South Africa.
Mfenyana’s portrayal of Thumeka has garnered widespread acclaim, with critics and fans alike praising her ability to infuse depth, emotion, and complexity into her character. This recognition follows her recent win for Best Actress in a TV Series at the 2025 National Film and Television Awards (NFTA).
This year’s SAFTA nomination has placed Mfenyana in esteemed company, as she goes head-to-head with renowned actresses such as Brumilda van Rensburg for Kelders Van Geheime Season 1 and Zodwa Nkosi for iThonga.
Zenande Mfenyana beams with pride as she receives her nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the SAFTA awards for her role in Inimba
Image: Social Media
Sharing her excitement on X, Mfenyana described the nomination as “so surreal 🥹 To God be all the glory!” Fellow cast member Loyiso McDonald was quick to offer his congratulations, stating, “Well deserved.” The online community joined in the celebration, with fans praising her work and commitment. Though Twitter user Asisipho Burwana enthusiastically noted, “Zenande Mfenyana, I will mold that SAFTA with the richest gold from the pits of Mponeng Gold mine! What a spectacular performance lo sisi!” Another follower, Pearl_M, declared, “You’ve done an exceptional job portraying Thumeka’s character, you deserve it all. Congratulations @Zenande_Mcfen!” While Ntombikayise added, “Oh Zenande Mfenyana, you deserve this nomination!!!”
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Saturday Star