Noni Mafani, a Johannesburg native with roots in Gqeberha, has rapidly risen in the South African television landscape. She began her career with support roles in TV shows such as Generations and DiepCity, before taking 1802 Love Defies Time as Nomabali and now stars as Latoya 016FM on Showmax.
She caught up with Shihluke Wisani to discuss her portrayal of Latoya in 016FM, how she navigates challenges, cultural intricacies, and her personal and professional evolution within this compelling series.
Can you tell us about your character in 016FM? How does she contribute to the storyline and what drew you to this role?
Latoya is the vibrant host of the breakfast show on 016FM, a personality destined for greatness beyond the Vaal. While deeply passionate about the station, she has ambitions of making it big in Johannesburg. Her segment, Bua Fela, invites listeners to share their stories, adding a personal touch to her engaging presence.
She gets involved in the storyline by suggesting a live on-air battle to determine the station manager, a move that brings in heavyweights like DJ Speedsta and Ba2Cada, leading into the electrifying “Kwaal of the Vaal.” What drew me to this role was not only the character’s parallels with my own aspirations but also the opportunity to showcase the rich culture and distinctive fashion of the Vaal on screen—a narrative rarely explored in television.
Latoya is a pivotal character in the fight to save the community radio station from closure. What aspects of her personality do you find most compelling, and how do you relate to her as an actress?
Latoya is an alpha personality, bold and fiercely determined. Her unwavering confidence and resourcefulness in navigating challenges are qualities I admire deeply. As an artist, I aspire to have her fearlessness and drive. She’s not just saving the station because she can; she does it because she believes in her ability to rally support and make a difference. Her charisma and strength make her a force to be reckoned with throughout the storyline.
As someone originally Xhosa portraying a character in a Sotho-speaking series, how did you navigate the linguistic and cultural aspects of your role?
I am Xhosa born in Gqeberha and raised in Johannesburg, and have always lived in the city. Being raised by someone in the industry who connects with people definitely influenced me. I’m fluent in five languages, including Sotho, which I kept a secret initially. I didn’t mention it during casting to avoid pressure. Even though Latoya is Xhosa, she’s based in Vaal and has spent years there, so she speaks some Sotho. When I surprised everyone on set with my Sotho skills, it made a big impact. I’ve always been around diverse cultures and learned from people of different backgrounds. As an artist, this helps me ensure each character’s story is authentic and unique, not just the same person with a different name.
You come from a family deeply rooted in broadcasting, with your father being the legendary Putco Mafani. Did his influence shape your journey into acting, particularly in a role that revolves around radio broadcasting?
Absolutely! I vividly recall early 2022 when I expressed my interest in pursuing a career in radio. Having always focused on acting and TV presenting, I approached my father for guidance. He immediately suggested creating a demo. I remember him drafting a script for me, which included integrating a Vodacom advert seamlessly. After recording it and listening back, I knew radio was where I belonged. However, breaking into radio proved challenging due to its strict experience requirements. My father encouraged me not to lose heart, advising me to start with community radio. Just as I was navigating this path, the opportunity to audition for Latoya’s role in 016FM came and I was like God is at work here. My father’s deep involvement in broadcasting not only fueled my passion but also equipped me with invaluable insights into the industry, shaping me profoundly as an artist.
During the production of 016FM, did you form any close friendships or bonds with your cast and crew? How did these relationships contribute to your experience on set?
We were such a close-knit group that we became like family. The positive energy on set greatly influenced how we brought the story to life. As someone new to the industry, having such supportive and caring people around was invaluable. Ntate Sello, for example, would share his wisdom and offer to help with my lines, especially when I needed to speak Sotho as Latoya. His encouragement made me feel at ease. Working closely with the late Mpho Sebeng was a privilege. He was dedicated to his craft and always aimed to improve as an actor. Learning from him was truly inspiring, and I feel fortunate to have collaborated with him on one of his major projects before he passed away.
The entire cast, including Mapula, Joseph, and others like Aus Sophie, Mama Tina Mnumzana, and Mapaseka, felt like a family. Our directors were also fantastic, always supportive and encouraging. Before 016FM, my experience with intimate scenes was limited, but everyone on set, from Mpho to the directors, showed incredible care and understanding. They constantly checked in to ensure that I was comfortable and happy, especially during scenes like the one with DJ Whiskey. I cherish the opportunity to have worked with such amazing people in the industry. It was an unforgettable experience that I wouldn’t trade for anything.
Mpho Sebeng, played a significant role in the series. What memories or experiences stand out to you about working with him?
Mpho stood out for his kindness and humility despite his extensive industry experience, having grown up on TV. Our heart-to-heart conversations on set about life and our aspirations as a cast were always inspiring. Mpho’s strong family values left a lasting impression on me; he often spoke fondly of his sister and made time to visit his parents regularly. His dedication to his craft and continuous growth as an actor taught me a lot, but it was his unwavering commitment to family and spirituality that resonated with me the most. Losing him suddenly was a profound loss that I continue to grapple with, but I find comfort in remembering how he valued happiness and would want us to cherish our shared experiences on 016FM. Experiencing Mpho Sebeng’s presence was truly special, and I treasure the impact he had on me personally and professionally.
As the series progresses, what can viewers expect in terms of character development and plot twists throughout the season?
There is a serious syndicate that will unravel and the characters will navigate life amidst all of that. There will be possible love intrerests that will develop, viewers have to stay tuned.
016FM is streaming on Showmax with new episodes dropping every Wednesday.
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