WAVEMAKERS: AMA QAMATA

Words: Kirsten Jacobs | Images: Supplied

It’s time to make waves. After almost two years of staying indoors, now is the perfect opportunity to go big with your fashion.

Gone are the muted tones, soft fabrics, and strictly utilitarian pieces we’ve been wearing on repeat. Our latest summer campaign is all about ushering in a new summer wardrobe designed to make waves.

Our latest TV ad campaign features a wavemaker from the local acting scene, Ama Qamata, the breakout star of Netflix’s hit show Blood & Water, as well as Mzansi Magic’s Gomora.

Blood & Water was an instant sensation, reaching number one in South Africa, the United States, and more countries. The highly-anticipated second season premiered on Netflix this September, continuing the story of Puleng Khumalo (played by Ama) as she negotiates the tricky terrain of family, friendship, and love.

Blood & Water turned Ama into a household name and South Africa’s newest ‘It girl’. However, while it may seem like the 23-year-old actress became an overnight sensation, that’s far from the case.

Ama has quietly been carving out a seat at the table for years, having started her professional acting career at the tender age of 16. It seems the country is now sitting up and taking notice of this South African starlet on the rise.

In honour of our latest campaign, Ama sits down with Superbalist.com to talk all about her wave-making acting journey, and how she plans to expand on her talents in the future.

When did your interest in acting first begin?

At a young age when I would participate in school productions.

Tell us about the moment you found out you landed the role as Puleng.

I was in the nail salon and I literally started screaming when I got the call. Everyone in the salon just looked at me, but when I explained that I received great news they all joined in on the excitement.

What do you find the most rewarding and the most challenging about acting?

The most rewarding thing about being an actor is getting to explore different characters and walks of life. The most challenging part is that we are so hard on ourselves. Every actor that I’ve worked with is - to some degree - a perfectionist. I would also like to add the call times! Waking up at 04:00 every morning is not for the fainthearted.

How do you prepare for your different acting roles?

Preparation. Knowing the character really well and knowing about their history helps a lot in making decisions about your character when you perform.

Blood & Water became an overnight success almost instantaneously. Did you expect it? What has been the most surprising and exciting part of this whole journey?

Yes, it’s been incredible. I feel really blessed to be part of it and the most surprising thing for me is how many people have actually watched the show. I don’t know but that shocks me every time people bring it up to me.

As an actor, you spent most of your time playing someone else. In your downtime, who is Ama?

I would say I’m reserved. I like to spend my quiet time alone, I find so much peace in being alone and being in my own space.

Beyond acting, are there any other fields that you’re interested in exploring?

More of the behind-the-scenes work of filmmaking and also fashion.

You’ve entered the fashion world with your partnership with Adidas. What is it about Adidas that appeals to you?

It’s a brand that supports the youth and the culture. And Adidas is iconic!! It’s an honour to be part of the family.

What’s next for you? Where do you hope to take your career in future?

The possibilities are endless and sometimes that can feel overwhelming. I think for now I just want to stay present in what’s happening and enjoy what I’m experiencing at the moment.

SPOT AMA IN OUR NEW TVC:

HERE'S WHAT AMA WILL BE ROCKING THIS SUMMER:

SHOP AMA'S ADIDAS FAVOURITES: