Samkelo Makhanya aka Charlie Samson (24) holds a bachelor degree in professional acting for camera from City Varsity. Coming off my first Standard Bank Ovation Award winning controversial play, The Kaffirs, in Grahamstown, I'm known to be quite a courageous and rebellious Storyteller. I don't ever approach a story with the intention of being controversial or rebellious, I think the essence and content of the story dictates everything. If the story is saying "push me there" then don't limit it. I don't think Bomb Production would be Bomb Production if they had limited Yizo Yizo. One of my objectives for joining the academy is to widen my skill capacity in storytelling in all 4 disciplines that I forever want to professionally practice in my career which are directing, writing, producing and acting. Many often say "You can't do it all, no one will take you seriously. You have to choose one" Well I guess no one takes Jordan Peele and Tyler Perry seriously. And if your argument is "This is South Africa, not America" then it's exactly that mindset that won't propel you to greatness. You only lose in life once you stop believing. I consider Angus Gibson as my biggest hero along with Tebeho Mahlatsi. My idols being Thabang Moleya, Tebogo Malope, Shaft Moropane, Zolani Phakade, Amanda Lane, Phathutshedzo Makwrela, Desiree Markgraaf and Bonga Percy Vilakazi. I'd mention some international storytellers if I wanted to but they haven't really done anything for our South African industry. I love everything about what we do and it's great privilege to do what I love every day. We're all parents to our own dreams, so be a good a parent.