MORWESI Theledi has become the first female ex-convict to score a TV role.
The actress, who spent 10 years behind bars for defrauding a bank, has joined the cast of Muvhango as Mantwa.
Morwesi told Daily Sun she couldn’t believe it when she got the call-up.
“I started crying because it was a big deal for me. I had been struggling to find employment because of my past,” Morwesi said.
The 38-year-old said she believed her time in prison was a blessing in disguise.
“I don’t want to lie and say life behind bars was easy. It was extremely difficult. On certain days, you long for small things like a hug or being around family. But you can’t, and that leaves you with a feeling of emptiness,” she said.
“But it was a blessing in disguise because the skills I got through the arts and culture programme helped me land a good job.”
When she was sentenced, Morwesi was pregnant and later gave birth in jail.
“After giving birth, I spent two years with my son. He knew who I was and I’m grateful for that because it could have been worse. I could have been a stranger to him when I was released,” she said.
“We have a healthy relationship. I didn’t struggle with reconnecting with him when I was released. He also visited me every week.”
Morwesi said she committed a crime because her life was threatened by a group of criminals. But she said she was not scared of them.
“I have no fear because of the relationship I have with God,” she said.
Muvhango spokesman Thanduxolo Jindela said. “At Word of Mouth, we cast people based on talent, not background. We believe in second chances. She has been well-received by Mzansi and we are proud of her.”
