GUGULETHU Zuma ka Ncube might be the daughter of the most powerful man in South Africa, Jacob Zuma, and the most powerful woman in Africa, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, but she is slowly carving her name far away from politics.

From portraying Sergeant Bhelu in Interrogation Room to playing Lesedi Moloi in Isidingo, she seeks to further prove her mettle.

On Monday, the 30-year-old unveils her latest project Uzalo on SABC1. She produced the telenovela with Pepsi Pokane.

It's a story of two boys who were swapped at birth when Nelson Mandela was released from prison.

The show boasts stars such as Leleti Khumalo, Bheki Mkhwane and Mpumelelo Bhulose.

Airing at 8.30pm, it's pitched to take on Mzansi Magic's popular Isibaya.

Zuma ka Ncube says the telenovela has captivating, powerful and fascinating storylines which are complemented by great acting from both new and established actors.

She praises the creator of the show, Duma Ndlovu, for a compelling premise for Uzalo.

She believes that the series' foundation, specifically the issues of bloodlines, family loyalty and betrayal, will set the show apart.

Moreover, the quality of the show, and its dramatic story-telling will be enough to keep viewers glued to their screens for some time to come.

"The show raises so many questions that I am certain the audience will be excited to grapple with and answer for themselves as they watch it," she says.

The show was filmed in Durban and will showcase the beauty of the coastal city.

Zuma ka Ncube says being part of the Zuma dynasty has not translated into an easy ride. She feels she is not alone in the struggle for recognition.

It is a problem that affects many young black women, she argues.

"I can't attribute the difficulty I have faced to the status of my parents. There is no way for me to know what effect would it have on people that I deal with."

She believes that being a producer has pushed her to grow, but she still wants to act, because that's her first love.

The actress, who lives between Johannesburg and Durban, says the future of the local film and TV industry looks bright, even more so if it gets the support it deserves.

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