Makgotso M took to her Instagram to share a lengthy write-up on her struggles of not sounding or looking South African for certain roles when she goes for auditions.

The star stated she has been told countless times when auditioning for certain roles that she does not look African or South African enough.

In her write-up, the actress gave an insight into her origin and the languages she can speak.

Makgotso wrote, 

I am an African, a South African Zulu and Pedi woman to be precise, with British citizenship too because I was raised in England from a very young age. I speak Zulu more fluently than Pedi because I was raised by a Zulu woman, and on occasion, you will hear one of the many South African accents when I speak English infused with a certain kind of British accent. (because there’s not just one British accent).

I have been told countless times when auditioning for certain roles that I don’t look African or South African enough. Which is absurd because I am both of those things. Also, black British roles have been a myth, lol. And I have been told (not in so many words) to accept it because that is just how the industry is.

I understand that some roles do require a specific look. Granted. However, I feel that mainstream media has defined what being African looks and sounds like, which tends to be one specific look and sound. Which is inaccurate because Africa is so diverse. South Africa alone is so diverse in culture, traditions, languages, accents, looks, food, music etc. Yet alone the 53 other countries that are in Africa.

Also, please hear my heart. In expressing the discrimination I have faced and continue to face for looking the way I do, I am not disregarding the discrimination that darker skinned black people have faced and are still facing. In talking about my struggles and pain, I am by no means disregarding another person’s struggles and pain.

And I am one person. My personal experiences do not cover the experiences of all black people.

Even the pictures that I’ve chosen, are not a proper representation of Africa. They are pictures of family, friends and some people I admire. Africa is way more diverse.

I say all of this to say this. Representation is important. When I watch TV, film, theatre or print/digital media we should see all kinds of people from different backgrounds, different abilities, different sexes, sizes etc. Art is an imitation of life. And life is not just black and white. Tall or short, slim or curvy. As a people, we are so diverse. I learn something new every day. If I’m not cooped up in the house lol.