When I had ‘The Silent Heroes’ series in mind, I had the names of individuals who’ve made a meaningful impact on the world as we see it today, who we are and where we’re headed as a nation, although not much noise is made on their contributions. There is something magical about storytellers, the perfect skill of taking something written on paper and bringing it to life, is admirable and it’s time, those individuals took the spotlight.

In light of the recent news event, I thought it would be appropriate to move the heroes I pay special homage in this piece from later on in the series to today.

Childhood local Television was the best and so many talented individuals contributed their efforts, talent and craft towards those memories. Little did they know how immense their impact was on us as a nation. The fact that sitcoms and drama series in the 1980s reflected our unique identities, languages and talents while entertaining us at the same time, is commendable.

We saw ourselves on TV and that alone was enough to spark hope and inspiration to the lives of many. We saw this move as a possible career move that one can embark on. How each of these individuals, selected and representative of many I unfortunately omitted due to limitation, paved the way for many others that came after them to also realize their dreams and reach for the same stars. Though the fight for freedom in the arts still continues, their lives and stories will always shape the direction of many in this lifetime.

Khotso Nkhatho (65) is famous for portraying 6 characters on the Sesotho drama ‘Mopheme’ based on a book of the same name by Sebolai Matlosa. He is still heavily involved in producing indigenous radio drama stories for Lesedi FM.

Ray ‘Velaphi’ Ntlokwana, in memorium, (1937 – 2000) who hailed from Gugulethu entertained generations as the delivery man for the fictitious Shukushukuma’s Ad ‘n Print agency who was afraid of using an elevator. Who can forget Boikie Pholo (79) born in Orkney (NW) who brought life to TV genre of’ horror’ as ‘Raitlhwana’ in Lesilo Rula. I’d add ‘Hlala Kwabafileyo’ to almost the same category.

‘Bophelo Ke Semphekgo’ introduced us to outstanding performances from Lydia Mokgokoloshi (80), the beautiful ‘Senthaolele’ played by Advocate Nakedi Ribane and the changing faces of the womanizing ‘Nkwesheng’ played by Patrick Shai and Seputla Sebogodi.

And to my absolute favourite ‘Sgudi snaysi’ with a stellar cast including the late Joe Mafela ‘S’dumo’ – who was the reason behind changing the show’s original name even on the theme song, the late Gloria Mudau (Louise) & Daphne Hlomuka (Sis May). It’s beautiful to also see Thembi Mtshali (who played Thoko on the show ) still on our screens today.

To many of these silent TV heroes for setting the bar, paving the way so early on during a difficult time in the history of our country and now to the likes of Vatiswa Ndara, Florence Masebe and the Generations 16 for taking on the baton towards championing the plight of actors in our lifetime,

I remember, honour & celebrate all you Silent Heroes!