Daring, controversial, eloquent and sharp, are the words that could best describe the character of Joyce Huni on Studio 263. The character, which was played by Tinopona Katsande, became popular because of the way the talented actress executed her role before she quit the soap about four years ago.
Her departure from Studio 263 disappointed most of her fans and many should have been wondering what she has been doing until she came back in the limelight as a presenter at new radio station ZiFM Stereo.
She has embarked on private projects in the modelling industry, entertainment, cosmetology and events management.
Katsande temporarily relocated to Johannesburg, South Africa, where she joined the Christ Embassy Christian channel Love World Saturday as the breakfast show and news anchor. She also worked for magazine show Click Africa, until her return home early this year.
NewsDay Entertainment Reporter, Tinashe Sibanda (ND) recently had a chat with Katsande (TK) and she talked about her multi-faceted career. Below are excerpts of the interview.
ND: What are you currently focusing on? TK: Presently I am active in acting mostly in theatre productions and am endeavouring in the growth and success of my non-profit making organisation Nyeredzi Trust, which focuses on the identification and development of artistic talent in children, particularly those of poor backgrounds. It is also no secret that I am actively back to my favourite entertainment field as a radio personality on one of Zimbabwe’s newest stations, ZiFM Stereo. I am ecstatic about my new role.
ND: Why did you leave Studio 263? TK: It was just time to leave. I left Studio 263 with a heavy, yet content heart. I gave eight years of my acting career to the production and I gave nothing but 100% (commitment) all the way. The management, cast and crew had become my family over the years and through all the ups and downs, but I had to leave when the time came.
ND: Would you go back to Studio 263, given the opportunity? TK: I wouldn’t go back because I believe in progression. Once I decide to move on I do just that. I can only do so when I have to work behind the scenes at a much higher level. I am now more intrigued by the creative process of acting rather than just the acting delivery.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
ND: What is your view on the local arts and entertainment industry? TK: The entertainment industry in general has developed positively over the last couple of years. As a citizen and an entertainer in Zimbabwe, I am appreciative, but the road to fulfilment is still very, very long. Performing arts are still a fledgling industry and will remain so unless more support is given from major and consistent sponsors.
ND: What is your view, as a radio personality, on the opening up of various radio stations? TK: The opening of the airwaves clearly indicates that Zimbabwe has entered a whole new era in broadcasting and entertainment and one cannot help but be positive in thought and action.
ND: Any other plans for the near future? TK: My plans regarding my life as a whole is to keep on keeping on in where ever and whatever Jehovah leads me to, because he is the one who makes success possible. I live by the motto “Love God, Love Life and Live, Live, Live”.
