Mbulelo Mpofu, recently in Johannesburg, South Africa
BULAWAYO comedian Brandon Masuku has returned home inspired to develop his craft after making his South African debut, where he performed before new audiences and connected with established and emerging comedians.
Masuku recently performed at Simas Funny Galore, Bioscope Sundays and XclsvClub Canna in Johannesburg, gaining exposure to a different comedy scene.
He said the warm reception exceeded his expectations, giving him confidence in his material and encouraging him to explore opportunities beyond Zimbabwe.
“Performing in South Africa for the first time was an incredible experience. Coming from Zimbabwe and getting the opportunity to share my comedy with a different audience was special.
“You can never be completely sure how a new audience will respond to your material, especially when you’re performing in another country. So, while I was hopeful, the warmth and energy I received were genuinely encouraging,” he said.
Beyond performing, Masuku said interacting with South African comedians gave him valuable insights into different approaches to stand-up comedy and audience engagement.
He met comedians Virgil Prins, Dakes, Mbali Gudaza, Aiden Ho and Rae du Plooy, as well as emerging performers Lerato Syna Jones and Castro the Comedian. He also watched Dillan Oliphant perform.
Masuku said the trip left him motivated to improve his craft and build connections within the regional comedy circuit.
“The experience opened my mind to just how diverse stand-up comedy can be and how much there is to learn from other performers.
“I came back to Zimbabwe feeling inspired, motivated and hungry to grow. The experience reminded me that there’s a whole world out there to explore and as comedians, we never stop learning,” he said.
His South African appearances were built on his experience performing at venues in Bulawayo and participating in local platforms, including the Kwantuthu Comedy Festival.
Beyond stand-up, Masuku has hosted events at the Intwasa Arts Festival and participated in a project with Do Vikela under a Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) production, gaining experience in event hosting and broadcast productions.
He said his South African visit was as much about learning and networking as it was about performing.
“Ultimately, I didn’t just go to South Africa to perform; I went there to learn, connect and experience another comedy scene. And I came back with great memories, new connections and even more excitement about where this journey can take me,” he said.
Masuku hopes to build on the experience as he continues to develop his material and pursue opportunities across the region.
Follow on X: @MbuleloMpofu
