Azande Mkhungo stars as the bold and ambitious Mpumelelo, or "Mpume," on DiCHiPi by JiK’iZiNTO. In this breakout role, Azande brings to life a young woman hustling through life in Soshanguve, juggling her dreams of becoming a DJ with the realities of a challenging home environment.

If I could go back and say anything to my younger self, it would be this: Azande, don’t sleep on yourself!

Wow. the last year has been phenomenal. I have made some real strides in my career. But looking back now, I see how I used to downplay my talents when I was younger, constantly selling myself short. It’s almost hard to believe that the same person—who hesitated and doubted—has landed here, playing Mpume on DiCHiPi by JiK’iZiNTO. But I’m here, thriving.

Mpume’s confidence has a way of seeping into me; she would never second-guess herself. And now, being her, I wonder why I ever did.

Landing this role feels like validation. Like it’s my reward for every hard-won step along the way. I mean, I matriculated in 2017 and this is my first gig - a whole 7 years later. Years in this industry, pushing and grinding for every opportunity— I honestly think another person would’ve given up. Somehow, I didn’t. Nah, not somehow - I gotta admit that my family has been my anchor; the support that held me up even when it felt like I was going to fall off. It’s not lost on me how blessed I am to have them.

In many ways, Mpume and I are mirrors. She’s a go-getter, a hustler, and doesn’t take “no” for an answer. I get that – I live that. Every step I take, and every success I taste is because I’ve worked hard for it. But here’s where we differ: her fashion sense is out of this world! Honestly, I learned so much from her style. It’s not that I used to keep it simple; I actually am also ‘out there’ with my wardrobe. But this chick? Wow. She gave me a new perspective of what it means to have boldness in my own look. Mpume doesn’t just show up; she shows out. Mpume’s style is fearless. I wouldn’t have thought to try some of her looks, but now, I see myself experimenting, loosening up even more. There’s something freeing in playing a character who shows up exactly as she is, flaws and all.

It’s been so inspiring to play a character who loves music and DJing as much as I do. When I’m on set, playing her, I feel connected to that part of myself that’s also a dreamer, that loves the thrill of music and the energy of a crowd.

Funny enough, playing her has made me think hard about what motivates me to do what I do every day. I’ve been putting in the work for years now, too, and everything I’ve achieved has come from that steady grind. Mpume doesn’t get distracted and doesn’t lose sight of her dreams—even when she faces choices that could pull her in different directions. It’s like a reminder that hard work does pay off. Just stay focused, don’t let anything throw you off your game. That’s the motto.

Her confidence and relentless focus are reminders of what it means to go after what you want. And she’s got this strength in her that I recognise in myself. Everything I have, I worked hard for, but I also feel God’s hand in it. It’s like my path was leading here all along.

It’s strange, how much a character can teach you. Mpume’s journey reminds me to stay grounded, to keep showing up, and to trust that every bit of work I’m putting in now will carry me forward.

This journey, this work—it’s all worth it. I won’t sleep on myself ever again. Not even for one more day.

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