Actors and theatre productions have constantly complained about irregularities in the South African industry. Many have died paupers due to many struggles to make ends meet. Former Isibaya actor Sayitsheni Simon Mdakhi (43) has resorted to taking matters into his own hands by getting into the e-hailing business after the telenovela came to an end. He, like other actors, has had to find other streams of income.

TAKING MATTERS INTO HIS OWN HANDS

Sayitsheni is a seasoned actor who played the role of Saddam on Isibaya alongside actress Linda Sebezo. He is also known for his role as Speshil on the e.tv soap opera Rhythm City. He has appeared on several shows including, Yizo Yizo, Tsha Tsha and Home Affairs. He has directed several theatre productions, including My Hobos, Can I Get an Amen?, Who’s Drinking Who? and Dance Mzansi, to name a few. A close friend tells ZiMoja, "There’s nothing wrong with driving Bolt or Uber. He is a father, he needs to make ends meet. Anyone can be a driver. You can finish your office job and drive after hours until midnight, sleep and go to work," he says. The friends say Sayitsheni started driving during the lockdown. "Times were tough, productions were not working, he had a car and it only made sense that he started driving. It also meant that he could be outside and have a permit. That is what a man does, take charge of his life and not make excuses about unemployment. I commend my friend for doing what he needed to do." The friend and colleague says he would never be a driver. "It’s tough for us in this industry, people recognise you, they stare and feel entitled to you. But Sayitsheni doesn’t have the celebrity mentality, so he does as he pleases, as long as he takes care of his family." Sayitsheni was previously married to DJ Zinhle’s former best friend and business partner Nomndeni Mdakhi, but the couple divorced in 2020.

OTHER SHOWS THAT HAVE COME TO AN END

He is not the only actor that has had to find other streams of income. Oros Mampofu opened an eatery, and Tisetso Thoka opened a braai spot in Randburg which has since closed down. Mapaseka Koetle opened a coffee business which she also had to give up. J-Something recently opened a restaurant in Sandton, Ntando Duma also recently opened a kiddies hair salon.