‘Identity is who we are’: Nhlanhla Kunene on his Zulu roots, Heritage Day and preserving culture in the modern age

For actor Nhlanhla Kunene, Heritage Day is a time for South Africans to reflect on who they are and where they come from. Celebrated each year on September 24, Heritage Day honors the country's rich cultural diversity and history. Kunene, known for his role as Mxolisi on Kwa'Baba and his previous stint on Skeem Saam, shared his thoughts on Zulu identity, the influence of entertainment in preserving culture, and the importance of understanding one's roots.

Kunene emphasized that culture, identity, and heritage are fundamental aspects of who we are and urged people not to let the busyness of modern life overshadow these aspects. "Culture, identity and heritage are who we are, so it’s very important to celebrate them," he said. He also highlighted that the demands of a hectic schedule can cause people to lose touch with their roots.

"Because of our busy schedules, we can sometimes forget where we come from and where we gain our strength and power. Heritage Month helps to solidify that reminder."

Growing up, Kunene was immersed in Zulu culture and identity, thanks to his upbringing in a Zulu household. "It comes from home. I am Zulu and I was raised speaking isiZulu, so culture and identity have always been part of how I was brought up," he explained. He stressed that being Zulu means carrying the legacy of generations who came before him.

"We were taught that when you walk, you are carrying the lineages and generations of people who came before you. That is something that has stayed with me. It reminds me that identity is not just about how people describe you; it is connected to where you come from and how you were raised."

Understanding one's identity, according to Kunene, goes beyond self-description and involves delving into family and lineage. "Knowing who you are goes deeper into understanding your family, your relatives and your lineage. For example, knowing your family connections and understanding who you are related to can shape the way you live and the choices you make."

He believes that entertainment, especially in the context of popular culture, can also contribute to the visibility of African heritage, particularly among young people who are heavily engaged with social media. "Popular culture and entertainment can play a big role because young people are constantly consuming content, particularly on social media," he noted.

Kunene stressed the need for cultural representation in the content being produced, warning against overly Westernized portrayals. "There is often a focus on flashy lifestyles, and sometimes content can feel like it is speaking from other people’s experiences or becoming too Westernised. I think there should always be a dash of culture in the content we create."

Language, he argued, is another crucial area where entertainment can make a difference. "We have children growing up who don’t fully understand or speak their home languages, whether they are growing up in townships or suburbs," Kunene pointed out. "Social media is such a big part of young people’s lives, so incorporating culture into the content they consume can help remind them where they come from."