Sikelelwa Vuyeleni, a film graduate, began her professional acting career in 2014 with a memorable role as the street-smart Zen in e.tv's police drama “Traffic!” She then showcased her versatility in various roles, including her breakout performance as Thando in the Moja Love telenovela “Hope.”
With a decade in the industry, Vuyeleni has portrayed memorable characters such as Natasha in Showmax’s “Adulting,” Nambitha in e.tv’s “House of Zwide,” and Khosi in the 1Magic romantic series “1802: Love Defies Time.”
She has also appeared in acclaimed Mzansi Magic shows like “Isikizi,” “Umalume,” “Ukuphila Kabili,” and “Ingozi yothando.”
Vuyeleni's latest film, “Quantum,” shot in Cape Town last December, will be featured at the 32nd African Diaspora International Film Festival (ADIFF) in New York this December. This project marks Anele Geqiwe's second feature as a writer/director, following “Life Happened“, which is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
In “Quantum”, she stars alongside Bohang Moeko, Litemba Mkoka, and Nicoal Hanekom. The film has been selected alongside other South African films, including “Back of the Moon” by Angus Gibson, “Death of a Whistleblower” by Ian Gabriel, and Nothing But the Truth by John Kani, to mention a few.
We spoke with the talented actress about her directorial debut and her interests outside the film industry.
What were your first thoughts on the script, and what made you want to join the film?
The first time I read Quantum was quite an experience. I was reading looking forward to seeing how these different stories come together. I was hooked. What got me was the idea of exploring the medium of film (outside my usual which is television and I had just done a lengthy shoot). I needed to do something new, refreshing and even better that it took me away from Joburg. I was faced with an opportunity to create with dope young people, on a beautiful story and in my favourite city? It was the perfect setup! How could I not join?
How would you describe your experience working alongside Bohang Moeko and Nicola Hanekom?
It was such a seamless, collaborative experience. Everyone was present to the story world, and their characters. It felt as though we’d been doing it for a while, I thoroughly enjoyed working with all the cast members! It’s also such a beautiful thing when actors share their experiences with such grace, Bohang and Nicola were so generous. Having a front row to their brilliance was such a treat!
What does it mean to you as an actor to have your work featured at a festival like ADIFF that's been around for 32 years?
It’s almost as though the producers of Quantum were eavesdropping on my conversations with God about the next thing. I guess all we need to do is just ask. I had asked for the next season to be one of going into film and specifically ones that will be looking to submit and show at film festivals. Quantum is that first! And for it to be at this scale is such a humbling and exciting moment for me, for the entire team I’d think. It’s a big moment!
Walk us through your creative process, how did you approach this particular role and make it your own?
At the initial reading of the script, Zethu called me in. In the most gentle and graceful manner. I had to take her character bible and her journey in the script and sit with those, interrogating her why. After knowing what drives her, mostly being love, I drew from my well of that. Love is a language I enjoy exploring and expressing. Zethu’s fluency in love and patience called for moving from stillness. These choices gave way to the nuances that made her “her”- mine. And I can only hope as an actor that those choices land.
You've been in the acting industry for a decade now. Do you still feel that thrill when bringing a character to life?
YES YES YES ! A gripping story makes all the difference. It’s what really makes the journey worth it. I love characters that keep me guessing and on my toes—those are the ones that stick with me.
How important is it for you, as an actor, to engage in all facets of storytelling?
Absolutely! For me, it's all about growth—not just as an actor but also in being part of the creative process. I want to dive into the storytelling, contribute to shaping it, and not just come in at the end. That’s actually why I studied film; I felt there was so much more to learn about the industry. Storytelling is such a powerful tool, and I believe it should be fully embraced.
Congrats on your directorial debut! What did your time behind the camera teach you?
Oh man, thank you! It took me a while to get here 😂. This whole experience really taught me how crucial it is to have a dedicated team right from the start. Filmmaking isn’t a solo gig; I’ve learned to ask for help. It’s all about teamwork! But the best part? Watching what started as just an idea come to life on set—that empowerment is everything.
This journey has shown me that challenges are just opportunities to find new solutions. I’m learning that it can seem impossible until it’s actually done. I hear post-production is a whole other beast, so I’m gearing up for that now!
There aren't many black female directors in the country. Are there any stories about women's experiences that you think only female directors should tell?
I definitely think the number of Black female directors is growing, and it feels like the glass is half full. But for sure, there could still be way more opportunities. There are just certain experiences that are so unique to Black women, and if someone else tries to tell those stories, it kind of misses the mark. Honestly, it's also about respect. The process of creating those stories is sacred, and it deserves to be handled by people who really understand it firsthand.
What’s one role you’d totally love to take on, and what’s got you interested in it?
This might sound cliché, but there’s something really exciting about a woman in control, with her body as a weapon rather than being objectified. An action role like that would be incredible! Of course, it would take some serious training, which is why I’m preparing myself by staying fit and trying new things—like boxing, for starters. I’m also open to experimenting with different techniques, pushing boundaries to see how they can be used to tell a story in a fresh way.
Do you have other interests outside the entertainment industry?
Definitely, I’m getting back into studying. But honestly, I feel like it’s going to lead me right back to this industry. I’ve noticed some areas that really need attention and better management. I want to be one of the people who helps make it healthier and more sustainable for everyone involved.
