Luyanda Zwane is steadily becoming one of South Africa’s most exciting young actresses. Get to know her beyond the screen as she shares her career journey, the lessons shaping her twenties and the things inspiring her right now.
From captivating audiences onscreen to becoming one of the exciting young names shaping South Africa’s entertainment industry, Luyanda Zwane is steadily building a career worth paying attention to. Most recently, she has drawn praise for her performance in Netflix's The Polygamist, further cementing her status as one of the country's most promising young actresses. Beyond the glamour, acting roles and growing public presence, there’s also a grounded, ambitious and creatively driven young woman navigating her twenties while finding her place in the industry.
With standout performances, a growing influence among young audiences and an authenticity that continues to resonate both on and off -screen, this rising star represents anew generation of South African talent redefining what success looks like in entertainment. Whether she’s stepping into emotionally layered characters or using her platform to encourage conversations around wellness, purpose and self-belief, her approach feels intentional and deeply personal.
With Youth Month in full swing, we get to know Luyanda Zwane a little better as she opens up about her acting journey, the women inspiring her, the music soundtracking her life and the parts of herself people don’t always get to see beyond the screen.
GLAMOUR: What first inspired your love for the screen and when did you make your on-screen debut?
Luyanda Zwane: I’ve loved performing since I was eight years old. I was always involved in school plays, musicals, talent shows and hosting events at school. At 16,I was scouted by Mr Price on Instagram after posting photos online, and that’s when things became more professional. I went in for castings and officially entered the entertainment industry in 2020. But honestly, the love for performing started long before that.
G: What’s one thing the entertainment industry has taught you about yourself?
LZ: The industry taught me not to seek validation externally. You can’t rely on casting directors, agents or other people to constantly affirm your talent. You have to know who you are and trust your abilities even when nobody is clapping for you. There will be rooms where people don’t affirm you or feel threatened by your confidence, especially as a young woman. I’ve learnt to walk into spaces knowing exactly who I am without needing outside validation to confirm it.
G: What would you be doing if you weren’t in entertainment?
LZ: I would definitely be a psychologist. My grandmother gave me The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Dr Joseph Murphy, and it completely shaped how I think about life, mindset and emotional wellbeing. I’ve always been the person people come to for advice, even within my own family. Before fully stepping into acting, becoming a psychologist was genuinely the plan.
G: What’s your favourite thing about South African youth culture right now?
LZ: I love how the youth is prioritising wellness and mental health right now. Conversations around emotional healing, self-awareness and growth have become so normalised within youth culture, and I think that’s really beautiful. There’s also a stronger culture of community forming again— from concerts to running clubs and wellness spaces. We are creating environments that encourage connection, support and healing.
G: Which women are currently inspiring you the most?
LZ: Thuso Mbedu is incredibly inspiring because she changed the game for South African women, especially dark-skinned women, on a global scale. Viola Davis also inspires me deeply because of her excellence. Above all, my grandmother Gog’ Zwane continues to inspire me the most. The values, principles and wisdom she instilled in me shaped the woman I am today.
G: What’s currently motivating or driving you in this season of your life?
LZ: My grandmother always told me that my gift would make room for me and bring me before greatness. Coming from Umlazi, the life I’m living now once felt very far away. What keeps me grounded is remembering where I come from and surrounding myself with people who knew me long before the industry did. Most of my friends are outside of entertainment, which helps me maintain perspective. I also prioritise things like journalling, meditation, yoga, Pilates and hiking. Those routines remind me that I’m a person outside of the industry too
G: Which role has been the most meaningful for you so far?
LZ: Sbongile from Sbongile & The Dlaminis will always stay with me because of the impact that character had across so many different generations. The show reached millions of viewers, and even now people of all ages still connect with that role. I loved being able to portray a character that resonated so deeply with people from different walks of life.
Amahle Maseko from Spinners Season 2 also changed my life completely. That role represents a shift happening within the industry, especially with African storytelling becoming more global. Being part of that moment feels very special tome.
G: What’s one beauty or fashion item you can’t live without right now?
LZ: Cotton On jewellery. I always need to have my rings, necklaces and earrings on.
G: What’s one thing people should know about Luyanda Zwane beyond the screen?
LZ: I am a vessel of God. I want people to know that I see myself as a vessel of light, love and purpose. Everything I do comes from wanting to make the world a better place. I try to approach life, work and people from a place of love, excellence and intention.
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