In the new eVOD show Mother of All, actress Zenande Mfenyana takes on the role of Nolwazi "Nono" Mathebula, an ex-cop-turned-convict who is released from prison after 10 years. Despite it being a first for her, Mfenyana slips into her new character with ease.
Nono's life is far from easy after her release. She faces hostility from her mother and "celebrity" daughter, Fufu, and struggles to find a job. However, Nono remains determined and steadfast in her resolutions. That is, until her daughter is framed for a murder, just like she was.
When Fufu's boyfriend, who is married, is killed by a local gangster and Fufu is blackmailed due to her fingerprints being on the murder weapon, Nono is forced to become as ruthless as she was in prison. She gathers a group of ex-convicts, all searching for redemption and rejected by their families, to save her daughter.
In an interview, Mfenyana discussed her character and the challenges Nono faces. "Nono was framed and convicted of a crime, spent many years in prison, and when she gets out, she doesn't receive the warmest welcome from her mother or daughter. There is a lot of hostility," she said.
Mfenyana also highlighted the lack of rehabilitation programs for ex-convicts in society. "It is sad to watch because in reality when people come out of jail, there are not a lot of rehabilitation programs for them to welcome them back into society. People still look at you with those eyes, that you're a criminal," she explained.
The actress was drawn to the role because she had never played a cop or a convict before and was eager to challenge herself. "I was very open to challenging myself and stepping into a character that I've never played before," Mfenyana said.
With Mfenyana's talent and dedication, it's no surprise that she effortlessly slips into her new character on Mother of All. Viewers can expect a captivating performance as Nono fights for justice and redemption, showcasing the struggles faced by ex-convicts in society.
