Harriet Manamela
In a night filled with glitz, glamour, and heartfelt moments, South African actress Harriet Manamela received a well-deserved recognition at the 7th Royalty Soapie Awards held at the Heartfelt Arena in Tshwane, Gauteng, on August 24, 2023. Manamela was celebrated for her outstanding performance as Meikie Maputla in the beloved SA telenovela, Skeem Saam, where she captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike. Winning the Outstanding Supporting Actress award, Manamela’s achievement was met with enthusiastic applause from fans who took to social media to express their excitement and pride in her accomplishment.Harriet Manamela’s journey in the entertainment industry is not just a testament to her talent but also to her dedication and passion for acting. Born in 1971 in Diepkloof, she completed her schooling at St. Anthony’s Centre in Boksburg. Her love for performance led her to join the Squints Artists Community Theatre Group in Alexandra, where she showcased her skills in numerous productions, including “The Virus” and “Let’s Talk About Aids” at The Market Theatre Laboratory Annual Festival.
With a rich foundation in theatre, Manamela has built an impressive resume that spans decades. She honed her craft at The Market Theatre Laboratory, where she starred in productions like “Broken Dreams” and participated in innovative projects such as Theatre Sports for SABC3. Her talent took her on tour to Sweden with “Gommorah” and marked her presence in many theatrical ventures that resonated within South Africa’s vibrant arts scene.
Manamela’s television career initiated in 1998, where she made her mark in popular series including “Soul City,” “Isidingo,” and the critically acclaimed “Yizo Yizo II.” Her versatility as an actress extended to film, appearing in notable works such as “Dr. Lucille,” “Hijack Stories,” and the poignant “Yesterday.”
In 2013, she further expanded her repertoire by joining the e.tv soapie “Rhythm City,” where she portrayed Nomzamo, a complex character battling alcoholism amid difficult circumstances. Manamela’s ability to breathe life into her characters has solidified her as a prominent figure in South African television.
The night of the Royalty Soapie Awards was not only a celebration of Manamela’s achievements but also an appreciation of the intricate stories and performances that South African soap operas have to offer. The event brought together the country’s television elites, creating a space where stars connected with their fans on the red carpet, highlighting the strong community that exists in the world of South African entertainment.
It’s moments like these that remind us of the dedication artists like Harriet Manamela pour into their craft. As she continues to inspire many through her roles, her recent award stands as a ‘feather in the cap’ of her already illustrious career, paving the way for future successes in the ever-evolving landscape of South African drama and entertainment.