She's so versatile as an actress that when you hear Vatiswa Ndara's posh Model C voice reading the news on Metro FM, it's hard to believe she can so convincingly play the range of gritty and raw characters she does or has done.
For instance, she plays a drunk on Home Affairs (SABC1 drama, Thursdays at 8.30pm), a ruthless soccer mogul in Shooting Stars (former e.tv series) and a maid in Nomzamo (SABC1 sitcom, Mondays at 7pm). And who can forget her as MaMfundisi (a ruthless crook who swindled the vulnerable) on Generations?
In fact, her prowess in acting earned her an invitation to be a juror in the 2008 and 2009 International Emmy Awards to judge the Best Actress category.
Although most viewers feel they know her from her TV characters, very few know the "real" person behind all those intriguing characters.
Could this be because she is a woman of few words in interviews? Be that as it may, the little she says will leave you in stitches. So, let's get to know her better... well, at least a little better.
Who is Vatiswa Ndara and where does she come from?
Vatiswa Ndara's journey changes quite often. She becomes a different person with every different part of the journey or circumstance. But what I can tell you for sure is that Vatiswa is a lass from Mthatha in the Eastern Cape
How would you best describe yourself?
I would definitely describe myself as being very shy (giggle, giggle).
Describe your friends.
Look, if I had to describe my friends - I'd have no friends left at the end of that description
Married, single, any kids?
Very much single (thank God) - with one beautiful child.
How old are you really, because in Home Affairs you look 60, outside TV you look 35?
Oh, thank you. I am actually 39 turning 40 in September. I do, however, feel like I've lived beyond 1 000 years.
How do you spend your free time?
Watching as many movies as possible, going to the gym and trying to catch a good book once in a while.
Between acting and news-reading - which is your passion?
Oh! Okay, you are definitely trying to get me fired from one of them.
Which has been the most challenging role you've acted to date?
Every role should be taken as a challenge - so all of the roles I've played have been challenging.
What has been the highlight of your career thus far?
Being an international Emmy Award juror for the past two years.
Where are you headed in this industry?
I hope very far.
Any other productions on the pipeline that you're busy with at the moment?
The final season of Shooting Stars should be screened on e.tv just before the World Cup (I think) and a short film called Till You Do Us Apart should be screened on SABC1 sometime soon.
Which actress do you think is doing wonders in Mzansi?
I think there is one actress who is still going to do dynamic things on our screens. She has such great screen presence. I had the pleasure and honour of working with her recently on a short film. Her name is Noxee Maqashalala.
Your feelings on Jennifer Hudson playing Winnie Madikizela-Mandela?
My feelings are actually irrelevant - she already has the part.
Who do you most admire in your life?
After my mother, I admire myself.
If you could change one thing about the South African entertainment industry, what would it be?
I would give BIGGER budgets.
Do you often visit Durban?
Unfortunately, I don't visit Durban as often as I'd like to. Durban beaches are to die for.