Ex Scandal! actor Nomvelo Makhanya says she is in a better place some years after opening up about her hospitalization with anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression.
Nomvelo told TshisaLIVE in 2018 that she was able to cope better with the ailment that landed her in the hospital for three weeks in 2016 by remaining true to herself and her feelings.
“I am in a much better space. Some days are better than others but I am doing better because I have learnt to make myself be present in the moment. I allow my feelings to overwhelm me if they have to. If I am sad, I will be sad. If I am happy, I will be happy. I stay true to myself now.”
Nomvelo’s story made headlines and sparked an outpouring of love for the young actress. She also stated it taught her not to assume she was fighting alone.“My DMs are filled with people sharing their struggles and challenges. It is humbling to think that I can make a difference in their lives. I think it is really important that we start talking about depression, especially in black families. Depression is something that is not talked about, it is the devil, and because we don’t talk about it, it affects us more. Talking about it helps.”She remembered her late aunt lovingly, who died in 2015, and said she saved a picture of her to recall the good occasions they shared.
“She was my best friend. Even if the family was fighting, I would make an excuse to go spend time with her. She was my pillar of strength and I now work hard to make her proud. Somedays I cry but every night there is a star in the sky that I believe is her watching over me.
Growing up, the actress was an athlete. She aspired to be a hockey or netball star. She participated in a variety of sports throughout school. Nomvelo Makhanya’s mother guided her in a different direction when she suggested she enroll in an art school.The actress attended Johannesburg’s National School of Arts (NSA). The secondary school in Braamfontein is dedicated to the progress of creatively gifted South African students. It was at this school that she discovered her love of performing.
She later appeared in various stage works such as African Reflections, The Bald Prima Donn, and Maybe This Time.
She rose to prominence in 2016 after landing a role on Scandal! Lindiwe Ngema was the character she played. In addition to Isibaya, I Am All Girls, and Soul City, she has appeared in several other films.