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Millicent Dube, Showbiz Reporter
The countdown for the much-anticipated Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA) on Saturday has begun with one of the nominees, actor Tawanda Denga, grateful for the recognition.
The multitalented figure whose amazing acting skill landed him a role in the country’s first-ever Ndebele Sci-fi film, The Signal, is nominated in the Outstanding Actor category. He is nominated for his role in that production and will be battling it out with Braydan Heart (Soul Mates), Aleck Zulu (Amacala) and Calvin Madula (Veza: The Unfolding).
Commenting on his RoilBAA nomination, Denga said: “This is an amazing honour and I’m over the moon for this nomination. Finally, my hard work is paying off as I’m now manifesting something that I have prayed for since I was a boy.
“I’m grateful to the people of Bulawayo for being supportive and the cast from The Signal which has been nothing short of beautiful and amazing souls.”
The Signal which premiered this year has been received very well, not only locally, but internationally as it has received awards from the Zimbabwe International Film Festival, Film Quest and the Sci-Film Festival. Being part of this production, Denga said, will always be iconic to him.
“I’ll always sing praises to that (being part of The Signal). It’s been one of the greatest opportunities as I worked with people I had a genuine connection with. This being a ground-breaking film for Zimbabwe showed that you don’t have to be in Hollywood to produce something this magnificent,” Denga said.
He said he has always been passionate about acting from a tender age. “Throughout my primary and high school days, I made sure that I never missed out on any drama sessions. This continued until I was featured on a programme on ZBC that was called ‘Look and Listen’. That’s when I realised that acting would eventually become a lifetime commitment.”
But, his acting career did not kick off smoothly as it took a while for producers to take note of his talent. Not letting this deter him, he pushed himself and ventured into music, dancing and motivational speaking. His determination has paid off as he has been privileged to work with the likes of Natasha Dlamini, Dumie Manyathela, Ron Lannister and Daniel Lasker who have all been more than supportive of his career.
Now, he is a Jack of all trades, posing as a musician, youth pastor, MC, motivational speaker and dancer.
Online Reporter