Um’Africakazi reflects on interaction with Dawn Thandeka King

SOUTHERN African culture and talent were on full display over the weekend as dignitaries and cultural figures gathered for the successful Imiklomelo kaDakamela Cultural Festival held koDakamela in Nkayi.

From the moment guests arrived at the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport in Bulawayo, they were treated to a rich traditional welcome led by cultural ensembles, including amatshitshi and local models, who sang and danced in their honour.

However, it was the arrival of celebrated South African actress, musician and cultural ambassador Dawn Thandeka King that stood out. She received an emotional welcome from award-winning poetess and actress Sithandazile

“Um’Africakazi” Dube, whose heartfelt poetic tribute moved King to tears, a moment that became one of the festival’s highlights.

Reflecting on the encounter, Um’Africakazi described it as unforgettable.

“Meeting Dawn was out of this world. I’m an artist as well, but there are some I’ve always looked up to, and she’s one of them. She’s among the actresses in South Africa making significant waves in the industry, and having the opportunity to welcome her was truly an honour. I had goosebumps when she arrived at the terminal building. It was exciting, as she’s such a vibrant and lovely woman. Seeing her tear up as I recited my praise poem filled my heart with gratitude.”

Beyond her celebrated career, it was King’s humility and warmth that left a lasting impression. The two quickly bonded, even joking about being “cousins” due to their shared Mthembo heritage.

“I remember joking with her, saying since her mother is a MaMthembo and I am a Mthembo daughter, then we are cousins. It was a light-hearted moment we both enjoyed. She’s a down-to-earth woman, who sets aside her celebrity status and is very welcoming. She made it feel as though we had known each other for years,” said Um’Africakazi.

Despite being widely recognised for her award-winning role as MaNgcobo on the popular South African soapie Uzalo, Um’Africakazi said King showed a different side away from the screen.

“Comparing the characters she plays on television to who she is in real life, I think she is actually a softie. The way she cried during my performance made me forget that she is Mam’uSigebenga or Umkabayi kaJama. She is real, she let go of the roles and was simply herself.”

King’s visit to Zimbabwe further highlighted this authenticity. Rather than maintaining a distance often associated with celebrity status, she immersed herself in everyday local experiences — enjoying meals in Nkayi and Bulawayo and interacting freely with locals. She even embraced local slang, taking a liking to the phrase Hantsho phela, which she playfully used during her visit.

Reflecting on her Zimbabwean experience, King said it was unlike any other.
“This is like no other, I don’t have words,” she said.

She also expressed gratitude to Chief Dakamela for the invitation.

“Thanks to Chief Dakamela for the invitation to this prestigious event. It was indeed a royal event. It humbled me so much to be with the Zulu Royal delegation. They made me feel like a part of the delegation, which was truly an honour.

At the awards showcase in Nkayi, King was honoured in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the arts, cultural representation and social impact through her work in film, music and public advocacy.

“Thank you to Chief Dakamela for honouring and recognising my contribution towards the preservation of our culture through storytelling. This was truly an honour and an experience I will not forget. Congratulations to all who received this honour.”

Her visit not only strengthened cultural ties but also left a lasting impression of humility, proving that, beyond the fame, she remains grounded and connected to people. — @MbuleloMpofu.