Name: David Omwange

Occupation Student and actor.

Star sign: Cancer.

Age: 24

How long have you been acting?

Nine years now. I was raised in New York, which is a haven for the arts. My peers and I used to perform in small plays on the streets and in public parks. My experience lies in theatre more than film. Despite my involvement in Shuga and Changes, acting is not my first love. I prefer directing and storytelling (scripting and writing in general). The creative process of developing a film and guiding the story and the actors is very fulfilling.

What do you do on the side?

My ultimate goal is to be a director, scriptwriter and producer. I love writing and I was recently introduced to acting. Prior to that, I had strictly been writing poems. I also love photography and despite being an amateur, I’m impressed with what I have compiled.

Did Shuga succeed in spreading the message?

The message was spread long before Shuga. We are all familiar with ‘Abstain, use protection, get tested’ and Shuga was created to emphasise these messages. I believe it was successful in changing lives. However, I think it did more than that. I think Shuga’s impact is based on its production quality and its appeal towards the hip youth culture. There’s no way of ascertaining Shuga’s actual impact, but I choose to remain optimistic because its motive is noble.

How do you relate to your character in Shuga?

Skola and I are extremely different. Our energy is similar, however, our beliefs and the way we carry ourselves is different. As opposed to Skola, I’m not interested in clubbing, booze, hitting up random chicks or a career in radio. I like mellow spots with a chilled out atmosphere. Despite our differences, I had a blast getting underneath his skin and presenting him to the world.

Will we be seeing you back on TV?

I recently featured in the MNET drama called Changes (season 2) as Kevo, a taxi driver and smuggler. I think Villains will be my cornerstone. I would have loved to continue, but I will be joining the South African School of Motion Picture Medium and Live Performance (AFDA) come January.

Who is your ideal partner?

I’ve never understood why people list all the qualities they want in a partner. How does that leave any room for surprise? Apart from a rich mind, heart and soul, I have no specifications about the woman I want. I have been attracted to different women and I honestly cannot find a common factor, not that I ever really think about that. I want to be surprised. I want to slowly discover my woman throughout our lifetime together. I can’t picture myself wasting time on a checklist of qualities because it’s dull, predictable and poisonous to the element of surprise.