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Langalakhe Mabena
When he turns back the hands of time, funny man Sipho Mercent Nyathi says he couldn’t believe he will thrive in the local comedy and showbiz industry, especially through comic skits.
This is because when it comes to the game of skits, Bulawayo comedians and the crowds don’t pay attention to this “lucrative” segment of comedy. It is in Harare where comedians have proven to be successful in this field, be it your Mama Vee, Mai Pentagon, The Comic Pastor, Mai Titi, Nigel The Slick Pastor — these jokers have turned creating laughter into a way of generating money and wealth.
They have successful commercial endorsement deals with a number of recognised companies whom they advertise on their behalf through their comic skits. These are the same people who inspired comedian Sipho Mercent to try and venture into skits and eventually, he found potential sponsorship and endorsement deals.
Sipho Mercent, who started doing skits early this year said he has managed to pave a way for himself in the showbiz through skits, which has attracted endorsement deals his way. The comedian has insane numbers on social media.
On Facebook he has 40 000 followers, and 12 000 followers on TikTok. These are the statistics that lure companies to collaborate with him as far as advertising and marketing are concerned.
He is the face of the vibrant new joint in Bulawayo KoSamuriwo. He is also an ambassador for Blessed Fashions and Blessed Auto Deals.
“2024 has been a great year, it has been exciting and overwhelming — entirely a new experience filled with pressure and great responsibility. When I look back, it’s entirely different now as I am conscious of what I let out there and say to the public. Skits have changed the game for me as now I am the voice of the ghetto, voice of the artistes and suddenly I realise I am the face of my city when it comes to comedy locally and internationally.
“I am working with KoSamuriwo Pub and Grill, a place that has taught me the importance of empowering youths in the community.
I also work with Blessed Fashions, a clothing supply company for all the latest clothing trends. I also do work for Blessed Auto Deals, a car dealership and car hire company. They offer services for all car imports from overseas and local vehicle shuttles,” said Sipho Mercent.
The comedian said he is looking forward to collaborating with more companies as well as local artistes so as to grow together.
“I am very happy with my career as I have gained national recognition, but the mission is to go international because I have so many stories and experiences to share with the world. By the end of the year, I expect to have done more collaborations with local artistes and companies.
I am pushing the initiative of the Next Talent Search — a parody show with Umnikazi Wempuphu, as a way of fostering collaborations with local creatives,” he said.
Online Reporter