Telekelo a fresh film force
Otlarongwa Kgweetsi | Monday March 3, 2025 10:01
She plays the role of Palesa on Youngins, a Showmax teen drama, and has worked with production companies such as Dee Zone Productions and Tshedza Pictures. As a Motswana in an industry largely dominated by Zulu and Xhosa-speaking actors, she sees her presence as a sign of change for both South African Tswana actors and Batswana talent. Her introduction to acting was unplanned. While studying at Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, she attended a friend’s acting rehearsal and was asked to read a few lines. That moment marked the beginning of her acting career. “As soon as the director saw me, he was like, ‘Please read these three lines.’ Ugh, did I know that was all gonna start from there? ”she said.
What began as a casual moment turned into a turning point, leading her to drop out and pursue film and television in South Africa. The opportunity to audition for Youngins came through her agency, and she was selected after just one audition. “What set me apart was the authenticity that I brought into the audition room. I wasn’t trying to act the character but allowed myself to become the character. And that made the casting directors love me,” she said. She describes playing Palesa as a process that requires research, emotional depth, and adaptability. “It was love at first sight, but she challenged me in Season 2. I had to do more research, be more vulnerable, and tap into her wild side. I love being challenged,” she added. For Telekelo, Youngins is not just another acting job but a breakthrough moment for Setswana-speaking actors. “It feels amazing to represent Batswana and speak Setswana freely because it’s not just a game changer in Botswana but in South Africa as well. A lot of the time, most characters and shows are Zulu and Xhosa-dominated. So South African Tswana actors and Batswana people feel proud that we are slowly seeing change in the industry,” she stated. Her formal training includes studies in Producing and Acting at AACA Film College, followed by further training at ActorSpaces, a highly regarded institution in Africa. “It taught me the skills I need for me to be able to have a successful project. It sharpened my knowledge in film and TV as well as film etiquette,” she noted.
However, breaking into the industry was not easy. “Adapting to the industry environment and being all alone in a different country... ugh, there’s so much I want to talk about, but all in all, not having anyone to rely on when I started,” she added. Despite the challenges, the response to her work has been overwhelmingly positive. “The love and support I get from both countries, and how people were just shocked by my performances and where I am originally from, it’s funny, but I do understand where they are coming from,” she pointed out. While she remains quiet about upcoming projects, she hints at more to come. “Um, I don’t usually like saying things out while they are at an infant stage. But just stay glued to your screens,” she added. For aspiring actors, she stresses the importance of gaining experience. “Research, learn, and be open to shooting for free with young filmmakers. Build your portfolio,” she advised.