Prince Zukisani Ndamase of the AmaMpondo AseNyandeni Royal House in Libode has been nominated as a finalist in two major categories at the prestigious Home of Legends Excellence Awards. The nominations — Provincial Actor of the Year and Provincial Traditionalist of the Year — mark a significant milestone for the young royal, cultural ambassador, actor, and GBV activist whose journey continues to inspire many across the Eastern Cape and South Africa.

Speaking to the Pondoland Times, Prince Ndamase said he first became aware of the awards after coming across a call for nominations on the Home of Legends Excellence Awards social media page.

“People voted for me and I got nominated,” he said. “To me, being nominated on its own is an achievement. It means people recognize my work, and it puts my craft on another level. I am truly honoured.”

He added that the recognition has the potential to open doors for him not only in the Eastern Cape but across the country.

A direct descendant of King Faku, the Prince is the grandson of King Vulindlela Ndamase and the son of Prince Ntaba Ndamase. His acting career began with his first television appearance on Isidingo before securing roles in some of South Africa’s biggest productions. His portfolio includes roles in Muvhango as an MMC Board Member, Generations as a businessman, The Queen and Gomora as a journalist, The Throne as a journalist, Lockdown as a warden, and lead roles in films such as The Broken Truth and the 48 Hour Film Project’s Simpleton as Detective Brian. He also starred in Fed Up, Series of Temptations, and made appearances in prominent music videos including Fakaloice’s Angzazi, Cici and Mafikizolo’s Hamba Naye, and Miss Pru’s Uhulumeni.

Beyond acting, Prince Ndamase has cemented himself as a cultural leader dedicated to preserving Mpondo identity, unity, and heritage. As a Cultural Ambassador of the AmaMpondo AseNyandeni Kingdom and a board member of the Mpondo Culture and Heritage Festival, he has worked with various royal families and the South African Royal Princesses Network on programmes tackling gender-based violence. His activism is widely recognized, and his foundation continues to support community initiatives aimed at fighting GBV.

He is currently developing a documentary project close to his heart, aimed at preserving the cultural and environmental heritage of the Mpondo Kingdom while advocating for the official recognition of the Mpondo language. The project will highlight the history, values, and contributions of the Mpondo people and strengthen advocacy against GBV. The Prince has also expressed his long-term dream of opening a film school in the Eastern Cape to create opportunities for rural youth wanting to enter the film and television industry.

The Home of Legends Excellence Awards aim to honour individuals, businesses, workers, and organisations who drive service excellence, innovation, job creation, and social impact while championing equality, workers’ rights, justice, and the fight against GBVF. For Prince Ndamase, these values align closely with the work he has committed himself to over the years.

“I will use this opportunity to continue making a difference for humanity,” he said.

Supporters can vote for him in both categories. To vote for Provincial Traditionalist of the Year, SMS HOLA62 to 33641. To vote for Provincial Actor of the Year, SMS HOLA61 to 33641. Voting costs R1.50 per SMS and closes on 5 December 2025. Voters are encouraged to vote as many times as they can.