Actress Morwesi Theledi played the lead role in the play Stories Behind Bars: Volume Three.
MORWESI Theledi has become the first female ex-convict to score a TV role.
The actress, who spent 10 years behind bars for defrauding a bank, has joined the cast of Muvhango as Mantwa.
Morwesi told Daily Sun she couldn’t believe it when she got the call-up.
“I started crying because it was a big deal for me. I had been struggling to find employment because of my past,” Morwesi said.
The 38-year-old said she believed her time in prison was a blessing in disguise.
“I don’t want to lie and say life behind bars was easy. It was extremely difficult. On certain days, you long for small things like a hug or being around family. But you can’t, and that leaves you with a feeling of emptiness,” she said.
“But it was a blessing in disguise because the skills I got through the arts and culture programme helped me land a good job.”
When she was sentenced, Morwesi was pregnant and later gave birth in jail.
“After giving birth, I spent two years with my son. He knew who I was and I’m grateful for that because it could have been worse. I could have been a stranger to him when I was released,” she said.
“We have a healthy relationship. I didn’t struggle with reconnecting with him when I was released. He also visited me every week.”
Morwesi said she committed a crime because her life was threatened by a group of criminals.
“I have no fear because of the relationship I have with God,” she said.
“At Word of Mouth, we cast people based on talent, not background. We believe in second chances. She has been well-received by Mzansi and we are proud of her.”
