THE WAY I AM ‘When I look in the mirror, I think“YES, I LIKE YOU”'

SA actress Lorcia Kumalo tells Stephanie van der Plank about family movie nights, living a guilt-free life, and her dream of owning a beach bar

Lorcia, 41, lives in Joburg with her husband and their two kids, 12 and 14.

What is your first acting memory? I learnt to act on national TV. One of my very first roles was on the local soapie Backstage, but I was hired for my dance ability more than anything else – the producers were confident I’d learn to act. Luckily, I did! But I was drawn to the arts from a very young age. When I was eight years old, I started dancing with Debbie Turner, a legend in the industry.

Did you have a career plan B? My family didn’t have the resources at the time to send me to university, so that wasn’t an expectation. My parents were delighted when I landed a job as a dancer because, in our community, employment was a challenge. That’s why I believe extra murals at school are so important – you never know when a fun pastime could become an opportunity.

Where are you happiest? Anywhere I can see the sea. Scottburgh in KZN is a great spot. I love walking on the beach or surfing with my daughter. But really, I’m happiest wherever my family is.