Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Instead of waiting for opportunities, Thandolwenkosi Nkiwane seized hers and owned the moment. The Bulawayo-based actress, who stars in the award-winning theatre production Ipi Intombi, was among the winners at the 24th National Arts Merit Awards held in Harare on Saturday, clinching the Outstanding Actress accolade in the Theatre category.
Known on social media as Dramatic Miss, Nkiwane had already begun making her presence felt before the ceremony, sharing comedic clips filmed at the hotel that hosted the awards, and engaging with locals in the capital.
But it was her acceptance moment that truly set her apart. Fully aware that many in the Harare audience might not know her, Nkiwane turned her win into an unforgettable introduction. As her name was announced, she danced her way to the stage to Bazobuya by Soul Brothers – a crowd favourite in her hometown of Bulawayo – instantly lifting the atmosphere. She was joined by her husband and industry colleagues, who celebrated alongside her.
“Zvekuti hamundizive zvenyu ka, nhasi matondiziva. Ndinonzi Thandolwenkosi Nkiwane. I come all the way from Bulawayo, koNtuthu ziyathunqa,” she declared confidently, drawing cheers from the crowd.
Anticipating curiosity about who she was, she leaned into it, using humour and charisma to win over the audience before dedicating her award to the theatre sector.
“This award is dedicated to the theatre sector, my amazing director who forced me to be on stage, my handsome husband who tolerates all the late-night rehearsals, and to all of you guys that are wondering who I am,” she said, once again reintroducing herself.
The crowd responded with thunderous applause, embracing the actress who had just turned a simple acceptance speech into a star-making moment.
Her performance on Ipi Intombi may have earned her the award, but it was her ability to read the room and command the stage that ensured she left a lasting impression – a reminder that in the arts, talent and timing are everything.
