Matholesville actor reaching for the stars

At only 22 years old, Tshepiso Jeme is making massive strides in his acting career, yet he still calls Matholesville his home.

He started studying towards a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Performance at the University of the Witwatersrand in 2017. In the same year, he got his first acting job in an Mzansi Magic telefilm called Indlalifa. Last year was even busier for him; he continued his studies and had roles in two short films called Umlando ka Mqanda and Memeza.

His passion and talent grew, and this year he was cast as Zithule, the leading role in the 1Magic drama series iThemba. The show covers numerous controversial topics, including cult churches.

Tshepiso has always loved the impact that film and drama have on society, that is why iThemba has been his favourite project to work on. It challenges people’s views, and prompts them to have sensitive and much-needed conversations.

While he stays at Wits during the university terms, he comes to his favourite place whenever he can – his home in Matholesville, Roodepoort.

Growing up in a difficult environment, not only outside the home but inside as well, Tshepiso described his childhood-self as introverted. He loved to read and write stories, and interacted with people only when he needed to. That has changed immensely; he has gone from socially awkward to being able to interact with people and relate to them.

As a child, he was never able to express his emotions properly. Now, as an actor, he is able to show every emotion his role requires. “Acting isn’t gender-based, I can be anything. I can cry, shout, laugh, and scream; I can live outside of myself and my reality.”

His hopes for the future are to meet new and exciting people in his travels. First he would like to conquer South African soapies, such as Scandal, and then move on to feature films in New York or London. He said he would much rather work in those cities than in Hollywood because art is really appreciated there.

His advice to aspiring actors is to love what they do and stay disciplined. “Constantly look to grow and learn more. You can never do or know enough. You need to work so hard that your work speaks for itself.” He added that one of the most important tips is to seek mentors; people in the field who can teach you and help you become the best version of yourself.

He finished off by saying that if an opportunity arises to study, take it; the classes teach you to hone your craft, give you tools to improve and stay motivated, and they show you how to use your talents to the best of your ability.