Actress Mudi Mudau needs little introduction. She has appeared in drama series such as Queen Mudjadji, Muvhango on SABC2, and most recently Pimville. Through her roles, Mudau has cemented her reputation as a respected actress, particularly in productions that explore themes of tradition and heritage.
The actress, who describes herself as fun, loyal, and ambitious, has also fallen deeply in love with Johannesburg.
Her passion for acting began when she was still a little girl. One of her fondest memories is playing a zebra named Kwagga in a story about how zebras got their stripes. The play was performed at a special school for children with disabilities, and Mudau says it was the children's reaction that truly sparked her love for acting.
Outside of acting, Mudau says she enjoys spending quality time with her family. One of her favourite things to do is simply sit under a tree and enjoy the shade, reflecting her deep appreciation for nature. She also enjoys being in the steam room or sauna.
Having been born and raised in Limpopo, then later living in Cape Town before settling in Johannesburg, Mudau says there is a lot to fall in love with in the City of Gold.
When describing her move from Cape Town to Johannesburg, Mudau says the contrast between the two cities was striking.
"Cape Town is more like a modern village; it's small, so you become familiar with your surroundings easily. Joburg is bigger, more spread out, so one feels you need to know people to get familiar," she says.
When speaking about what she loves most about Johannesburg, Mudau says the city’s history holds special meaning for her, particularly because of her family’s connection to it.
Her father once worked at the Bantu Social Club on Eloff Street, a place where members of the ANC would meet before going underground during the struggle years. The building is now the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) headquarters.
“I loved that building - the architecture, detail and the way it stood the test of time. I wish it had been turned into a museum,” she says.
Another thing she appreciates about the city is the spirit of Ubuntu that runs through its people.
“The spirit of the people in Johannesburg is vibrant,” she says. “There’s a sense of hard work and hustle, and yet people also want to have fun. It’s a very colourful city through the arts. That is the same spirit that has kept it alive regardless of its painful past.”
Mudau also enjoys exploring the many parks around the city. Occasionally, she takes a drive to Hartebeespoort, where she hikes and enjoys outdoor activities with her family.
Join Mudau as she shares some of the places and experiences that make Johannesburg a city she proudly calls home.
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