Actor Lerato Masia is nothing like the shifty thugs he plays on television, but rather a very charitable man who goes out of his way to give back to the community.
Masia is known for his role as a vicious criminal in Gaz’lam and for playing corrupt police officer Mlalazi in Inkaba, but he’s a completely different person in real life.
Speaking to the Daily Sun, the 35-year-old said it was time spent in India which made him realise how important charity is.
“I have learned a lot in life, both as an actor and as a member of the community,” he said.
“In India I was moved by the way people believe in giving to others. Once I was back in my country I decided not only to contribute my skill in acting, but also to make sure I help feed the needy - particularly young ones.
“I decided to adopt an organisation called Rondebult Multi-purpose Centre which addresses social ills in the community.”
Masia also personally cooks rice and vegetables for disadvantaged children at an RDP settlement in Ekurhuleni , and also takes time out of his busy schedules to tutor aspiring young actors at a Jo’burg production house.
A very good role model for society, Masia added: “It is our responsibility to be a good example.”
Teamtalk