HE IS popularly known for his charming yet devious character, Mxolisi Xulu on the SABC1 drama Uzalo. Actor, Nkosinathi ‘Nay Maps’ Maphalala says that there are quite a few things that people don’t know about him. He is a pastor’s child and describes himself as a passionate, loving and adventurous person. He believes that nothing is impossible. This is why he has used his time in the entertainment industry to spread his wings and wear different hats other than that of an actor. Talking to Move!, Nay Maps shares the journey of his acting, singing and fashion careers.
HIS ACTING CAREER
“I used to be in school plays and musicals, but I only started taking acting seriously around 2012. I started with modelling and TV commercials,” he says. “I got my professional break in 2014 with a role on Isibaya for about two episodes. I played the character of Tshepo. After that came Uzalo.” He describes acting as a world of differences. “I love the fact that I can be anything, like be a pilot, doctor or even a parent all in one lifetime. I can express myself in many ways and tell stories truthfully and impact lives in many ways. I love how I can take someone on a journey just by them watching me without having to be with them,” he says, adding that what he likes the most about Mxolisi is his sense of style. “I like how he dresses because that is also my passion. I love clothing.”
NEW CLOTHING LINE
The actor recently launched a clothing line called Nay Maps Clothing. He says he has always wanted to create a brand that people will love and appreciate. “I’ve always pictured myself having and creating a brand that would be worn by the entire world,” he explains. “I created Nay Maps Clothing because I want people to know that they too can achieve anything they want to as long as they believe.”
MUSIC IS HIS LIFE
He says his first love is music. “I started singing even before I got into acting. My father is a musician and my mother is a music lover, so my family is quite musical,” he says. “I have performed in many events and I was part of a group that won Crown Gospel Music Awards for Best Contemporary Song and Best Contemporary Song in Gospel, but I had to relocate from Johannesburg to Durban for Uzalo, so I had to leave the band.” He adds that, “I sing RnB, Soul, Hip Hop, House, Gospel, Jazz, Trap and Classical music and I will be releasing some of my music later this year.”
