Greatness in the entertainment industry awaits actress Lunathi Mampofu, who recently landed the role of Zikhona Mazibuko in SABC1's new telenovela Ingozi.

The 30-year-old actress says she comes from an artistic and expressive family. Considering that two of her brothers, Oros and his twin brother Prince, are also making names for themselves in the entertainment industry, there is no doubt that talent runs in the family.

Mampofu, however, is not keen to discuss her more famous siblings.

"I get asked about my brothers a lot actually, but this is my spotlight, (laughs) it's my time to shine," Lunathi says.

She says although she does not see a lot of herself in the character Zikhona, she can still relate to her.

"She is a very headstrong and impatient character. I'm her opposite but there are times when I can relate to her."

The actress is also a budding casting director.

Mampofu is a live performance graduate of the SA School of Motion Picture Medium and Live Performance (Afda). During her first year at Afda, Mampofu starred in Duncan Angus's feature film Mercy.

In 2010 she had a role in the film The Good Man which was shot in South Africa and Ireland.

Having lived in New York and Los Angeles while studying performing arts at the New York Film Academy, Mampofu says she came back to South Africa to apply the knowledge she gained in the US.

"When I moved to LA, I met a lot of people and learnt a lot. I needed to build my brand and home is where I have always wanted to make a difference," she says.

The Eastern Cape-born Mampofu says she has an aura that exudes greatness.

"People are drawn to me, they see potential in me that I know I have, but I haven't been given the opportunity to tap into it yet.

"Greatness is what you can expect from me, I am passionate about my craft. I have been praying that my work be acknowledged.

"Someone has to take South Africa to the next level," she says.