The foundation of a cinematic career often lies in the early mastery of “mental imagery.” 
My Afrika Magazine reporter, Lingiwe Sifelani had a moment with Mathias Kureva to get more insight about his filming career and achievements.

L.S: May you kindly introduce yourself.
M.K: I am Mathias Kureva, An Actor and Creator. I’m into both film and theatre.

L.S: Why did you choose this genre? 
M.K: I can safely say film chose me. I grew up in a family of readers. At a tender age l picked up the hobby. Since then, when reading l can visualize what I am reading actually happening. This led to my own small writings, which later developed into taking on roles and giving them a solid, tangible life. It is a world where there is self-expression, reflection of the world around you, and mostly therapeutic.

L.S: Where do you draw your inspiration?
M.K: I grew up herding cattle in the reserve plains of Seke. So most of my inspiration comes from nature and the art world at large. I am afro eccentric and I celebrate diversity.

L.S: What are your achievements so far and future projects?
M.K: I have done several projects with several production houses and individuals. My recent work is that I am on “BAKO” by Tafadzwa Ranganai and In-house Media which is hitting the big screens on 28 March at Ster Kinekor Joina City at 6:00pm. I have done “Mufudzi wemombe” by Tatenda Katsande. “Zvekare” by Munashe Mestar Chitsiga. “Maria and The Lamb” by Mestar Chitsiga as well. “River”, “2 Face” and “Jeko” by Collin Nyamuyaruka and Goodshot. There is “Can of worms”, “Chihombiro”, “206 Bones”, “Chapungu”, “I married my mother”, “Are we strangers”, “Border Jumper” – all these are from Light Image Productions. I was both on the crew and cast. 

I have also done “Matopos” and “Prayers” by Zambezi Motion Pictures. I have done an International Theatre Play by Klara Wotvoska called “Nzara,” which was later adapted into a film. I have written some work that was staged at Mitambo International Theatre Festival in 2022. And I went to Acting School at Zimbabwe Theatre Academy. There are many projects lined up this year, and some have already been done but are still under “gag order”  for certain reasons. So yes, a lot is to come.

L.S: As a child, what did you want to become? Has the dream been fulfilled yet? If not, why? M.K: Growing up, I wanted to be a musician, which I am in my own right. I do Open Mic Sessions, I am a DJ and an MC when opportunity arises. It’s just that film bloomed first. Just watch the space, I have things cooking.

L.S: Every creative has a deep etching desire shown in their work. What is your message about? M.K: I relate to people’s lives and reflect on my own experiences as well. I chose to use myself as an “example” on ways to explore and navigate emotional struggles, self-discovery, and reclaim oneself. So it is all for empowerment and guidance, especially to those under depression, manipulation, and substance abuse. We all must always keep in mind that Mental Health Matters.

L.S: What lessons would you give someone who is fascinated by your genre of art expressions and would like to join the industry?
M.K: Like any other industry, the art sector is saturated. Yes, we can talk of economic hardships, which is a very big blow l agree, but it’s all about what pushes you and what you are doing to make the terrain endurable for you. The going is hard, but be like a spring, the more a spring is suppressed the higher it will fly. Turn all negativity into your fuel. If you really soldier on, you will get in the league of those you envy. And always know it’s business.

L.S: What lessons have you learnt about yourself, about life, and about the arts industry along your journey thus far?
M.K: Consistency and persistence are the key. It is not about what others say; express yourself truly, that’s where the touch of being good and different comes from. Be genuine.

L.S: Have you accomplished everything you dreamt about when you started your creative journey? M.K: I have achieved some, and I am happy with the progress so far. But there is vast room for development and improvement. So as long as I see another daylight, we soldier on.

L.S: How can you be reached for audience or speaking engagements? Any social media handles? M.K: Facebook page: Mathias Kureva