BET Africa opens up the industry with ‘Black Gold’

BET Africa continues to push boundaries and open up the entertainment industry with Black Gold, a series that spotlights emerging talent both on-screen and behind the scenes.

Over the years, BET Africa has invested in the development of local talent across all facets of the entertainment industry. Through its original productions such as Isono, Redemption and Black Tax, the channel has provided a platform for emerging actors and production crews to gain professional exposure and experience.

Initiatives like the BET Culture Squad continue to serve as a key platform for discovering and amplifying creative voices, such as Leddi G, Ayanda MVP, and now Black Gold lead actor Nomalanga Shozi. In addition, the BET Awards have given local artists such as Sjava and Makhadzi global recognition by awarding them the Best New International Act in 2018 and 2024 respectively. This ongoing commitment to talent development highlights BET Africa’s role as a key contributor to the growth and transformation of our creative industry.

True to its commitment to nurturing new voices in African storytelling, the BET Africa’s Black Gold introduces a dynamic cast of new faces who bring raw energy, authenticity, and relatability to the screen. Among these fresh faces are model and influencer Ashleigh Herman, 19 year old Lwazi Dlamini, theatre performer Robert Wood, and Big Brother Mzansi winner Akhonamathemba Mbele-Zwane (known as Sweet Guluva), who are all gracing the small screen for the first time. The show also features energetic, young talent in Skhulile Mgaga and Sphiwe Zinhle Sithole. 

In addition, BET Africa’s Black Gold has welcomed emerging creatives within the crew, offering opportunities for rising talent across directing, production, and digital imagery to showcase their skills. Among them are Zikona Anam Debese, who started out as an intern and worked her way up to line producer for the show; Victor Motsoeneng and Esethu Juqu who started as extras and are now first AD and director respectively; Dineo Pheto who started as an intern and is currently the show’s post-production supervisor; and Castro Tshuma who started off as a driver for the production house and is currently the show’s senior DIT (Digital Image Technician). 

Taking its originality a step further, the daily drama features exclusive, authentic music produced by some of Mzansi’s celebrated composers, including Bongo Roit, Umlindo The Vocalist, and Kurt Slabbert who crafted the music specifically for the drama. The collaboration ensures that every beat not only complements the story but also amplifies its uniquely African voice.

Monde Twala, Senior Vice President & General Manager of Paramount Africa and Lead of BET International commented: “BET Africa has always been at the forefront of telling authentic African stories while providing a platform for new talent to thrive. It is no different with Black Gold. Together with Black Brain Productions we are opening the industry in real and impactful ways by casting fresh talent, empowering new voices behind the scenes, and even creating an original soundtrack that resonates and is on trend with our audience. This is more than a daily drama; it’s part of a movement to celebrate Africa’s creative future.”

Viewers can continue to expect a gripping storyline that reflects everyday realities, fresh performances, and a soundtrack that is as bold and vibrant as the story itself.

Don’t miss Black Gold on BET Africa (DStv channel 129) weekdays at 18h30.