Grassroots is a 13-part local series that explores the trials and tribulations of two young men whose passion for rugby leads them into a new stage of their lives.
But what is also compelling about this series is its elite female cast members, including the likes of Zikhona Sodlaka, Lerato Mvelase and Connie Chiume.
Zikhona Sodlaka (Epainette)
Zikhona is no stranger to performing in local productions. Her most popular role to date was when she portrayed the role of Scotho on Mzansi Magic’s Igazi.
In Grassroots, Zikhona plays the role of Epainette, the wife of a very influential man; she is also an important and well-respected woman in the community. In a nutshell, Epainette is the glue that keeps everyone together.
“Epainette reminds me of a lot of mothers, a lot of mothers are a lot like her. Mothers tend to be well-put-together and do whatever it takes to take care of their children.” – Zikhona Sodlaka
Lerato Mvelase
Lerato plays the role of Ms Pearl Busika – the first black principal of a predominantly white high school. Ms Busika finds herself facing many challenges with the institution and its students; however, it is her determination to bring change within the school that makes her a force to be reckoned with, despite the difficulties.
Connie Chiume
Connie has been in the television and film industry for over two decades. And although the younger generation may not know her work, in 2018 she won the hearts of the South African youth when she featured as a supporting cast member in Marvel’s Black Panther movie.
Connie plays the role of Gogo Sylena, and just like Ms Busika and Epainette, her role in Grassroots is to ensure that her family is taken care of and that everyone moves as a unit, especially when the going gets tough.
Catch Grassroots every Friday at 19:30 on 1Magic on DStv Now or on Showmax, where new episodes arrive at the same time.
