ACTRESS Dawn Thandeka King (39), from Eshowe, KwaZulu-Natal, is among some of the actors who are taking the acting industry by storm. Before acting, Dawn worked a nineto-five job in the tourism industry for 10 years. She says that while working there, she went through depression and acting was one of the things that helped her to be herself again.
FIGHTING DEPRESSION
“Depression is something that you don’t know you have until something triggers it. In the year 2005, I just got very depressed. That year, I lost a number of family members, including my grandfather who played a vital role in my life,” she says. Dawn says counselling helped her understand what was wrong with her. “Counselling helped me to deal with my problems,” says the actress.
PUTTING FAMILY FIRST
The TV star says juggling her career and her family is difficult because her family stays in Joburg and she spends most her time in KwaZulu-Natal, where she shoots Uzalo. “Juggling work and family is difficult but I always choose to look at the positive side of things. I’m a mother who works hard to provide for my five children. I always stay focused on what I’m doing but I don’t allow myself to be swallowed up by it. When I spend time with my children, I make sure that it’s remarkable,” she says. She adds that with the support of her loving husband of 13 years, she doesn’t feel overwhelmed. “My husband is my pillar of strength. He supports me in everything I do. That is why I don’t feel overwhelmed. I have a husband who is grounded and who grounds me as well,” says Dawn. The mother of five says her family always comes first.
DAWN THE ACTRESS
The actress, who was first introduced to Mzansi as Lindiwe Xulu on the SABC1 Zulu drama Uzalo, has bagged another leading role on Mzansi Magic’s drama series, Lockdown. “Acting has always been what I wanted to do growing up. I’m happier than ever now that I’m doing what I love. I believe that I was born to act,” she says. Dawn admits that there are pressures that come with being in the entertainment industry but she says one should always remain humble. “Hardwork and being humble pays off in this industry. When you are supportive to other actors, they will also support you. As a performer, you should also focus on always improving your own craft and helping your fellow actors,” she says.
