In an industry that is male-dominated, it warms my heart to know that this notion is slowly but surely losing its truth in our country. Women are stepping up and proving that, they too, can be taken seriously in the comedy industry. I see this as a milestone, one that opens up the door for the emergence of more women in this field.
Day 15 of my women’s day appreciation series celebrated the strides achieved in comedy by a pool of the nation’s best. As a loyal and local fan of the comedy arena, I am unashamedly a supporter of predominantly female comedians.
Comedians who equally work as hard and who continue to break all the barriers in front of them. Comedians who boast sold-out shows and leave laughter on the floor after every performance. Women who have made comedy serious business and have proven that one can earn a living out of doing something that they love and are good at.
The post dedicated, acknowledged and celebrated the works done by Tumi Morake, Celeste Ntuli, Noko Moswete, Thenjiwe Moseley, Nina Hastie, Khanyisa Bunu and the refreshing Hilda “Sista H” Sethosa.
Day 15 of my Women’s Month Appreciation series and today goes out to the women of this country that make me laugh effortlessly.
And I must admit, I do show a strong bias towards women in comedy, particularly local ones. Comedy is about having a strong ability to relate with people from different backgrounds and having someone who easily gets this complex bit right most of the time, is sheer talent.
Comedy is for readers, smart people who are always clued up with current affairs, trends and life moments and experiences. It takes a lot out of a person to easily make people laugh and smile. Comedy is also about truth and reflection, a combination that I feel these women effectivel ooze.
These women have been able to successfully hold their own in an industry that is male-dominated. In fact, I’d say they’ve managed to bulldoze their way through quite well. I hope they are remunerated just as much as their male counterparts.
Women who have made comedy a serious business and not just a hobby to pass time. And with that, I thought I’d acknowledge them today in this post, as I feel they have each payed their dues and have contributed towards the success of women in the industry.
Noko Moswete is simply refreshing and an absolute force to be reckoned with. Her bubbly and warm personality makes her a winner with crowds.
Nina Hastie is not only diverse and quirky but a breath of fresh air as well. Someone who tells a relatable story very well and I appreciate the lengths to which she goes to in order to understand cultures outside of her own. You rock!
Thenjiwe Moseley, the one female comedian who I have had the pleasure of meeting in person and take a pic with. Such a beautiful and humble person she is. One who is not only crazy and naughty but kills the one-liner jokes with ease. A hurricane. From KwaMashu to the world indeed.
Tumi Morake has been at this game the longest and always has her best foot forward always. A complete jack, can I aslo add master, of all her trades, how on earth does she do it? A hard-worker & very commited comedian who I will always have time to support and celebrate. Her work is of sheer brilliance.
Celeste Ntuli, Bhelez is one in a million and an absolute treat to listen to. Her energy and zeal about culture and tradition easily make her a gem with crowds. Thank you for making IsiZulu so refreshing, funny and fashionable. Your contributions towards the language is huge and your work is just too brilliant for words.
These womens’ success has led to a door being opened for the emergence of new talent and that is something I look forward to in the future, with the likes of Khanyisa Bunu (who recently stunningly opened for Trevor Noah) and Hilda ‘Sista H Emelda’ Sethosa (whose social media videos I always make time for) who are equally making their presence in this industry felt. Here’s to lots more of up and coming talent!
A very happy women’s month to you!
Mzansi’s Women of Comedy, I celebrate you all!
SithenjwaT 