Noko Mashilo
Award-winning actor Siyabonga Shibe says Inimba is connecting with audiences because it explores the realities of family life, forgiveness and resilience through stories many people can relate to.
The veteran actor plays Sydney Zondo in the drama series, a character whose journey is shaped by love, betrayal, revenge and redemption.
According to Shibe, Inimba explores the complexities of family relationships, workplace rivalry and the emotional battles that people often hide behind closed doors.
“Inimba is about love, conflict, deceit and the reunion of families. It shows the strong bonds that exist through trials and tribulations, what families go through behind closed doors, and the competition people face in their workplaces as they strive to remain on top,” he said.
Shibe describes Sydney Zondo as a disciplined family man who deeply loves his wife and children, but whose ambition often clouds his judgement.
“Sydney is a family man with traditions and discipline. He loves his family and constantly challenges his children to become better people. But when it comes to business, he is very shrewd and can do almost anything to keep his business afloat, even if it means compromising the very family he loves,” he said.
He said the character experiences significant personal growth between the first and second seasons.
“In Season One, Sydney was consumed by revenge after being overlooked for the CEO position in favour of Zoleka. In Season Two, he has moved on and wants to become an honest businessman by starting his own company, Zondo Tech.”
Shibe said viewers will also see a more compassionate side of Sydney as he becomes a father figure to others, despite struggling to build a relationship with his own son, Lwandle.
Reflecting on why he accepted the role, Shibe said his passion for acting and the strength of the story made the decision an easy one.
“I love my work, and I like getting paid while doing what I love. But beyond that, the story is beautiful. It reflects the everyday journey of a businessman trying to balance family, work and the challenges that come with both,” he said.
Although he shares Sydney’s commitment to family, Shibe said the similarities between them end there.
“There are no similarities apart from the love of family,” he said.
He believes viewers can learn important lessons from Sydney’s experiences.
“Obsession with revenge only hurts your inner peace and your family. Always rise above any situation. No matter how defeated you may feel, there is always light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.
One of the most emotionally challenging parts of filming was revisiting Sydney’s painful childhood and the scenes surrounding Lwandle’s arrest.
“Talking about my brother and my biological family, and the abuse Sydney endured from his father, took me on an emotional rollercoaster. I learned that forgiveness is key because if you don’t forgive, it will eat you up every single day. Healing and confronting your pain head-on is essential.”
Beyond Inimba, Shibe has written a new film which he is currently pitching.
“I don’t want to say much, but yes, I have written a film which I’m still pitching. I will be producing it together with MQ Mqondisi Ngubane, one of the renowned directors and producers,” he revealed.
He said he is also expanding his career beyond acting.
“I’m venturing more and more into producing, directing and writing.”
For aspiring actors, Shibe said professionalism is just as important as talent.
“Always be prepared. Know the story and understand your character’s journey. Be humble, always be on time, and respect the storyline, your fellow actors, the crew and management. Deliver your lines as though you’re saying them for the first time; they should never sound rehearsed,” he advised.
As audiences continue to embrace the second season of Inimba, Shibe believes the series resonates because it reflects everyday challenges while highlighting the importance of forgiveness, resilience and family.