#AfricaMonth: Q&A with Loyiso Madinga

How has winning the 2014 Savanna Newcomer Award affected your career?

Awards happen in retrospect. They recognise what has already happened. In stand up, it's the work itself that propels you forward. That's what I believe, at least. What the award really is is a public display of the appreciation of my peers for what they see is a worthy contribution to the industry.

What advice would you give this year’s bunch of Savanna newcomers?

The same advice Mpho Popps gave me: "We don't do this for the awards." If you get it, great. If you don't chances are you'll still play the same stages as the guy who did and maybe better ones if you put in the work.

What advice would you give to any aspiring comedians?

Nobody cares. Work harder.

What does it mean to you to be African?

I honestly had no choice in the matter, but I am grateful for the melanin. Some land would also be nice.

What’s your favourite emoji?

The one on Skype that vomits. So useful on social media.

What exciting new plans are on the horizon?

I'm working on my first hour special. I'm so excited I might actually even do it.

The Savanna Newcomer Showcase takes place on Sunday, 29 May, 2016, at the Soweto Theatre, Joburg

Tickets are R100 and are on sale at www.webtickets.co.za, Pick ‘n Pay stores and www.sowetotheatre.co.za. Tickets will also be on sale at the door, subject to availability.

Go to www.comicschoice.com for more information and to buy tickets to the 6th Annual South African Comics’ Choice Awards on 3 September, 2016, at the Teatro at Montecasino.