Sayitsheni Mdakhi continues to build on his success in TV and production. Pic Supplied
Noko Mashilo
Former actor Sayitsheni Mdakhi, widely recognised for his role as Dam Dam on Isibaya alongside actress Linda Sebezo, is steadily redefining his place in the television industry.
Having transitioned into writing and producing, Mdakhi said the move was less of a departure and more of a return to his creative core.
“Acting is where I learnt to feel a story, but writing and producing is where I shape it,” he said.
“That has always been my first love; acting comes second,” he added.
His experience in front of the camera has sharpened his instincts behind the scenes, allowing him to better understand the demands of performance. “I understand rhythm, subtext and emotional truth because I have to perform it. I write scenes that actors can live in, not just recite,” Mdakhi explained.
Like many creatives who shift roles, the transition has not been without challenges. “You have to prove yourself all over again,” he admitted. “There are also practical challenges, learning the business side, managing teams, budgets, and navigating pressure at a much higher level.”
He credits executive producer Desiree Markgraaff and Bomb Productions for providing him with a platform to grow. “I am very grateful for the training and the opportunity to prove myself,” he said.
Mdakhi currently serves as co-head writer of Pimville, a series he believes stands out for its authenticity. “It blends crime, family and socio-political commentary in a way that feels very close to home,” he said. “It is layered storytelling, not just chasing crime, but exploring the emotional and societal cost of it.”
He added that the series tackles themes such as corruption, power, gender dynamics and justice. “I am particularly interested in how personal relationships intersect with systemic issues; how love, betrayal and survival play out in a broken system,” said Mdakhi.
Beyond writing and producing, he has embraced the role of showrunner, balancing creativity with production realities. “Storytelling lives within constraints, budget, time and logistics,” he explained. “The key is collaboration. I work closely with producers, directors and all departments to find creative solutions that still honour the story.”
One of his notable projects, Queendom, has earned a nomination at the South African Film and Television Awards for Best Telenovela. For Mdakhi, the recognition goes beyond accolades. “It is incredibly affirming. It tells you the work resonates beyond ratings; it has impact. For the team, it validates the long hours, the sacrifices and the belief in the story,” he said.
He attributes the show’s audience connection to its honesty. “It does not shy away from difficult truths. It reflects power struggles, identity and legacy in a very raw way. Audiences see themselves in it, both the good and the uncomfortable,” he noted, adding that its exploration of water preservation was “a genius storytelling tool.”
Mdakhi has recently wrapped filming a 26-part series for e.tv, where he serves as executive producer and co-creator. “It is a project very close to my heart,” he said. “It is a character-driven crime drama that explores identity, deception and survival in modern South Africa. It is bold, layered and cinematic. We poured our hearts into it.”
The concept is inspired by real events. “My business partner and co-creator, Lunga John Radebe, had a neighbour who was a con artist. Audiences can expect a high-stakes procedural that will keep them on the edge of their seats,” said Mdakhi.
In pushing creative boundaries, the project marks a step forward in storytelling and production. “Structurally, it is tighter and more genre-driven, but still grounded in human truth,” he explained. “From a production perspective, we are aiming for a more cinematic feel, elevated visuals, a strong tone and a distinct identity. We had an amazing team; every department came to the party.”
For young creatives, Mdakhi offers grounded advice: “Be patient, consistent and stay curious. Do not wait for permission; create your own work. And understand the business side, not just the creative side. Be humble, and smile, it goes a long way.”
At the heart of his journey is purpose. Mdakhi hopes to build a legacy rooted in truth and opportunity. “I want to tell stories that matter, that challenge and inspire,” he said. “I also want to open doors for the next generation so they do not have to fight as hard to be heard. My daughter is in the film and TV industry; she is my cornerstone and the reason I keep breaking boundaries to pave the way for her and her generation.”