Buhlebenkosi Nkomo
From school plays to leading roles on radio and stage, rising Zimbabwean actress Mercy Moyo is steadily establishing herself in the local entertainment industry, using performance to tell meaningful stories while recognising the mentors who have supported her journey.
Moyo, a teacher and media personality from Emganwini, has built a reputation as a versatile creative. With experience in sports presentation and event hosting, she continues to develop a multifaceted professional profile.
Acting was not part of her early ambitions, but it became a defining path. “Acting found me, and I’ve been hooked ever since,” she says, noting how storytelling and creativity drew her into the craft.
Her breakthrough came in 2023 on Skyz Metro FM, where she took on the lead role of MaSthole Bakithii. “It was nerve-wracking at first,” she recalls. “But radio forces you to be loud, vibrant and fun. You have to capture listeners with your voice alone.”
Since then, Moyo has expanded her portfolio. In 2024, she featured as a fan in the musical The Grand Taimaz. In 2025, she played uMakoti in IMFIHLO, a ZBC television drama, and collaborated with award-winning comedian Mdawini Zex in a series of short plays, taking on the character Samantha.
Her progression has come with challenges, both personal and professional. “Opportunities for female artists are often limited. The industry is competitive, and sometimes bias and stereotyping can be disheartening,” she explains. She adds that balancing work with personal commitments remains demanding: “Managing the pressure while maintaining a personal life can be draining.”
Moyo continues to refine her range as an actress. “Character development is one of the hardest parts of the work,” she says. “It’s especially challenging when transitioning from loud, expressive characters to more nuanced and emotionally layered roles.” She believes that versatility is essential: “Each role demands a different version of me. Adapting to that change takes time, effort, and a lot of emotional and mental preparation.”
One of her most intense roles to date came in a theatre production focused on mental health, where she portrayed a character experiencing depression. “It was heavy, but eye-opening. It reminded me how powerful theatre can be in creating empathy.”
Moyo cites her mentor, Kundaimidzo Shamiyarira, as a key influence. “He believed in me before I did,” she says. “He pushed me to grow and take risks.”
With new projects anticipated in 2026, Moyo aims to continue using her platform to highlight important narratives and expand her craft.
“Acting isn’t just about being seen. It’s about telling stories that inspire, educate, and even heal.”
