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Somizi: “It’s important to tell a child, especially a black child, that it is possible"

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Photographer: Nick Boulton
Photographer: Nick Boulton

You seem to have figured the secret to life, what is it?

Be kind. A good heart is your ticket to moving forward so just be a nice person. Have good intentions and wish people well.

How does it feel to be loved by everyone?

I don’t think there are people who are loved by everyone. Even Jesus wasn’t loved by everyone. However, when the love outshines the hate, it’s amazing. For me it’s beautiful and I don’t want it to change as I give the same amount of love back. I don’t understand people who let it get into their head and become nasty when they are shown love.

Do you feel the pressure to always entertain people when you walk into a room?

I always want to bring light and laughter where ever I am. I always want to have a positive impact on people and smile whenever they walk away from me. Whether it’s work or wherever I say: “Let’s do this! Let’s let this be fun!”

You share a lot of things about yourself on social media. Do you have any responses to people who think that is boastful?

It’s important to tell a child, especially a black child, that [their dreams are] possible. I want to be visible and reveal the tricks and secrets to success, because often, people are very secretive with their successes. I wish I knew some of the richest people’s stories on how they made it. There’s a difference between boasting and sharing your journey. A person who thinks I’m boasting is one who would do the same if they were in my place.

What’s your relationship with money?

We’re good shem! I’m the guy who’ll buy champagne at the bottle store and drink it at home than at the club. I’m not depriving myself of the good things in life either, I’m just more cautious. When I go out with friends for dinner now, I split the bill with them. There’s no moreki unless I offer. Every cent counts.

Every fashion lover has a secret go-to place to find affordable clothes. Do you have?

I buy track tops at Pick n Pay Clothing and other similar shops. I no longer splurge unnecessarily. That’s living my truth – I don’t need to prove to anyone and it’s a beautiful place to be in.

What don’t we know about you?

I’m a germophobe – I don’t eat anything that’s been prepared for more than 20 people, so no buffets and I don’t eat at functions, weddings, funerals and parties. I’ve been like this since childhood. I don’t give handshakes either and always keep sanitiser in the car. I just don’t like dirt. My house is spotless; you could even eat off my bathroom.

Future plans?

I’m never going back to acting. Maybe I’ll do a feature film. I’m also working on a musical, which I’ll produce. I also want to make a dance film.

Read more about Somizi Mhlongo in our September 2017 issue. In stores now!

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