ISIBAYA actress breaks the barriers

FLORENCE was only 12 years old when she decided she wanted to be an actress.
“But convincing my parents that I should follow that career was not easy,” said Florence Mokgatsi (23), who plays Lerato in Isibaya.
By the time she got her big break on 90 Plein Street her parents accepted that she loved being in front of the camera.
Florence said she is nothing like the street-smart Lerato she plays on TV.
“Lerato is fearless and knows exactly what she wants. Her big dream is to find her Prince Charming,” said Florence.
“When I auditioned for the role I wasn’t very confident but I looked past my doubts and decided to grab the opportunity with both hands. I’m glad I did because I landed the role.”
Florence is doing a BCom marketing degree.
“In this industry few things last forever so it is important for me to be educated too,” she said.
“I also want to start my own production company and develop young talent. I want to be prepared when the time comes.”
She said she is grateful for the chance to work with the team on Isibaya.
“This is a steep learning curve for me but I love the challenge.
“It is also humbling to work with artists like Siyabonga Twala, Thembi Nyandeni and Celeste Ntuli,” she said.
Florence said she is a fun-loving woman who likes to make life easy for others.
“It is important to laugh at yourself and not take life too seriously,” said Florence.
She advises young people who want to get into the industry to get help from established actors so they can get an idea of what it’s about