DJ Kmat excited to make her acting debut

DJ Kmat is set to make her acting debut. 

The popular amapiano DJ, whose real name is Koketso Mathabathe, is part of the Jik’izinto campaign that uses a TV show, music and a web series to inspire, educate and equip South Africa’s youth with the tools and information they need to make informed decisions about their mental health, sexual and reproductive health and economic empowerment. As part of the campaign, DJ Kmat created a song alongside Dee Koala and Boohle.

She also appears on SABC1's upcoming educational series Chipi.

“I've always wanted to be a presenter. I feel even in university I was so good at public speaking. When I tried acting, I got a call back to be an extra. Now getting a role on a show like this is reaffirming,” she told TshisaLIVE. 

“For my first acting gig I think I did pretty well. I can't wait for you guys to see it. It was scary but it was so nice when I got into it. I didn't get any training for the acting and I did just one take, which was pretty cool. I hope it opens more doors for acting opportunities.”

The movement aims to instil hope, provide practical support and foster resilience in the youth across the country — particularly young women, who are often the hardest hit by systemic issues such as unemployment, limited access to education, and socioeconomic inequality.

“This is going to help young people with whatever they are battling with and help them do the most with their lives. Being a part of something like this is very important to me. It's going to be so impactful for young kids. Knowing that at least one person will be touched by the movement is rewarding.”

Reflecting on the journey of her career, Kmat said it's been a long time coming for her. 

“Along the way there are people who will try to bring you down, try make you doubt yourself when you are trying to find your feet as a DJ or when you are trying to make it. I think this content will help people get through a lot of those kinds of hurdles. 

“But overall it's been amazing. I'm blessed. My journey has been very fruitful. God has been on my side. I'm very grateful.”