Beauty queen joins Shaka iLembe!

THE highly anticipated second season of Shaka iLembe is set to captivate audiences.

There are some exciting new additions to that cast.

The fresh faces include Luyanda Zuma, a former contestant from Miss SA 2022, who will be joining the star-studded line-up of actors which boasts Zamani Mbatha, Amanda Seome, Anele Nene, and Sikhanyiso Sithole, among others.

The 23-year-old international model and AFDA graduate from Pietermaritzburg, KZN, will be taking on the role of Liyana, a character she believes viewers will quickly relate with.

Speaking to Daily Sun, Luyanda said she's excited to be part of a show with such a rich history and to have an opportunity to bring Liyana to life on screen.

"It feels amazing. I think Liyana's character is one people will really resonate with. She undergoes a beautiful journey from innocence to strength. Watching her grow from a brave, strong child into a fearless woman is something I think will captivate viewers," said Luyanda.

She also spoke about how her character plays an important role in revealing Shaka's humane side.

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While many historical accounts have portrayed Shaka as a powerful, almost untouchable figure, Luyanda's character helps reveal the Zulu king's more vulnerable side.

"Liyana brings light to the fact that even a mighty king like Shaka had moments of vulnerability, something we don't often see in historical portrayals of him. She shows that Shaka, despite his strength and might, is also human. That's something which will resonate with viewers."

For Luyanda, landing the role of Liyana was more than just a career milestone, it felt like destiny.

"I believe how everything is calling and when the time is right, you'll feel it. As much as I was scared whether, or not I was going to cast, something told me to stay still because it is going to be mine, once you have that connection and confirmation from the universe, God and your ancestors," she said.

Shaka iLembe airs on Sunday, 15 June.