Shaka Ilembe Shines on Global Stage at 2024 Septimius Awards in Amsterdam

The South African TV series “Shaka Ilembe” has achieved international recognition by making waves at the 2024 Septimius Awards in Amsterdam. This popular show, which captivated millions of viewers since its debut in 2023, secured the prestigious Best Costume Design award, while the talented Nomzamo Mbatha won the Best African Actress award for her powerful portrayal of Shaka Zulu’s revered mother.

In addition to these significant wins, Lemogang Tsipa earned a nomination in the Best African Actor category for his exceptional performance as a young Shaka, depicting his journey from a conflicted youth to the formidable monarch who founded the Zulu nation. The entertainment industry has lauded Tsipa’s portrayal, highlighting the depth and complexity he brought to the role of a young man struggling to fulfill his immense potential.

The show’s success didn’t stop there. Queen Motlatle, who designed the hair and makeup for Season 1, also received a nomination, underscoring the show’s attention to detail and dedication to authenticity.

Sheli Masondo, the mastermind behind the award-winning costumes, expressed her deep gratitude for the international recognition. “It was an amazing feeling to be recognised on an international stage and to be in a category where other costume designers did magnificent work. I didn’t expect to win. I’m very grateful that we can tell our stories in our language with our authentic traditional outfits,” she remarked.

Masondo’s commitment to historical accuracy was evident in her work, which involved over a year of meticulous research into the 1700s and 1800s. She delved into archives, consulted historians, and visited museums across KwaZulu-Natal. Her dedication to capturing the era’s essence led her to uncover traditional techniques still practiced by elderly artisans, ensuring that the costumes were as authentic as possible.

One such example is the Mbata, a Zulu traditional chest guard, crafted from animal skin and traditionally worn by the Royal family. Masondo’s designs were not merely about aesthetics; they were a journey into the past. “When I created the costumes for the show… To derive inspiration, I walked empty fields — looking at the birds, the trees, their bark, the fine textures, the veins on the leaves. It was very emotional for me. It was more than design. It was like stepping into my ancestors’ shoes,” she shared, reflecting on the profound connection she felt to her heritage.

Masondo’s work on “Shaka Ilembe” stands as a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of the ancestors she sought to honour. Her designs, free from modern materials like lace, ribbons, or beads, instead embraced the natural elements that surrounded her. This approach not only brought historical accuracy to the screen but also celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the Zulu people.

As “Shaka Ilembe” continues to receive accolades, it’s clear that this series has resonated with audiences far beyond South Africa’s borders, bringing the story of the Zulu nation’s rise to global attention.