Actress, voice over artist and production manager, Farieda ‘Pharoahfi’ Metsileng (27), is no stranger to South African audiences - from her hilarious comedy videos on social media to her popular role as 'Kandy' on Mzansi Magic's telenovela Isithembiso.
She first appeared on eTV drama 4Play: Sex Tips for Girls in 2010 as 'Lindiwe' and also played the role of 'Hlubi' on an episode of SABC 1 sitcom Ses’Top La - among other roles she’s held on TV.
Now, the rising star recently bagged her first lead role as 'Bettina Sikhakhane' on SABC 1’s drama/comedy Ubettina Wethu - a feat that she considers as one of the biggest highlights in her career so far.
We recently spoke to her about her the new role and her journey in the media/entertainment industry.
How would you describe your journey in media and entertainment so far?
It’s been one heck of ride with me starting out as a student at film school for a year, then moving on to work behind the scenes as a production assistant, all the way to becoming a production manager for a music show, and then finally getting to present and act. It’s been quite the walk, but I see how all those obstacles have prepared me for where I want to go. I don’t think I’d change anything because it’s a big part of why I’m still in it.
You play the lead on uBettina Wethu, how has that experience been for you so far?
This has been a different experience only because I’ve never been a lead in any series, let alone the first black Betty in the Ugly Betty franchise. In all honesty, I didn’t even think I’d get it, so to have events work out in my favour in this way was a blessing and something I am grateful for. It’s been a long but enjoyable journey working with people I used to watch on tv like Mme Motshabi. It’s also been an eye opener for me having to always be on my A-Game and making sure I am teachable in every moment on set. Having a teachable spirit is one thing I have learnt to practice on and off set.
What do you think this role is going to do for your career - particularly as an actress?
I can only hope that it will catapult my career to new heights, using my imagination would be doing it injustice. Being able to play Betty has been an honour, so I can only pray that I have done her justice and that my acting skills will showcase how multifaceted I can be.
What's your dream role?
My dream role is playing a entertainer trying to make it. I say this because sometimes people have a warped idea of the entertainment industry and what it takes to “make it”; but I want a role that will highlight how staying true to yourself will have a positive outcome if you just stay patient. It’s tiring to wonder "when will I get my big break", but the journey really prepares you for what you will encounter and how to not compromise an opportunity.
Over and above acting, you're also a digital content creator - can you take us through your 'digital' journey and what role that played in where you are today?
It played a major role in where I am today! I created a platform where I could express the talent that I have to speak on current or relatable issues but relay them in a comedic manner. I love laughing and found that I could deliver life “lessons” or things people could relate to in an entertaining way. It put me in a position to be headhunted by MTV to present on their platform, and also opened me up to brands who wanted to work with me.
What are 3 things that a lot of people might not know about you?
1. I’m actually really shy; my online personalities help break that awkwardness.
2. I’m also very clumsy - I sometimes trip on levelled ground (laughs).
3. I’m really good at remembering numbers in sequence (but I was HORRIBLE at maths!).
Please share any practical advice for young aspiring entertainers/performers and how they can work towards realising their dreams
It sounds so cliché but don’t give up. Make yourself heard, your dreams are valid and you owe it to yourself to make at least one come true. Timing is everything so hold on and always believe in you.
Catch #UbettinaWethu on Monday - Wednesday on SABC 1 and VIU South Africa at 19:30.