Hlubi Mboya opens up about the hardships of being an actress: 'I've been beat up'

While many might think showbiz is all glitz and glam, Hlubi Mboya has recently opened up about the challenges she has faced in the entertainment industry.

Taking to Instagram the 38-year-old seasoned actress revealed that all that glitters is not gold in the business of acting.

"Here's the thing: I'm 38, I'm black, and I'm a woman. So those are three really hard things to deal with...except I'm always working, but I really work hard to get - sometimes - crumbs," she began.

She then explained that although she feels "blessed and lucky" to have managed to forge a career as an actress, it hasn't come without copious obstacles.

"There are times I've been beat up in this business. It hasn't been just roses and fairytales."

Having in shot to fame in late 2000 when she took over the role of Nandipha Sithole on SABC 3's Isidingo, Hlubi revealed that the secret to longevity in the industry is to not only staying true to what you believe in, but being strong and having the ability to say no as well.

"It's been a tough road and you have to stick to what you believe in. You have to be strong. You have to be able to say no, and I cannot afford to operate out of fear."