Tazz, of SABC1 drama Intsika and Mzansi Magic telenovela iGazi fame, is pitching his directed drama to the country's prominent TV houses.
The actor believes he's on the brink of tying the deal's loose ends, as shooting is due to start before the end of the year.
"I have been around as an actor, but I believe it is time I switched roles by working behind the lens. I have been looking forward to the challenge for some time and feel I'm ready," Tazz says.
"It is about time I contribute towards the upliftment of young, up-and-coming actors, who look up to me for guidance.
"The pitching process is complete. I don't want to reveal much about the story right now until the contract is signed and sealed."
Nginda (36), the brains behind the Eastern Cape Entertainment Stars Awards, says a number of actors from the Eastern Cape are based in Joburg, just like himself, they receive little-to-no-recognition back home.
"People in the Eastern Cape have to know their stars better. When I am at home in Motherwell, I am often referred to in the streets as 'that Intsika or Tshisa guy', but I am part of that community," he says.
"They should know I am the ordinary guy from next door. I want the locals to celebrate and honour the artists born from their neighbourhood. The awards are an equivalent of the FAME Awards, which recognise talent from Limpopo - performers from their own back yard and province.
"People in the Eastern Cape do not know their stars, but see them everyday dominating the TV screens. As stars, they are not getting the recognition they deserve."
Tazz, the owner of the production company Mthonjeni Entertainment and Film, says the awards ceremony is to be held at the East London International Convention Centre on December 3.
Entertainers from the performing arts, including TV and theatre actors, directors and producers, sportsmen and women and the media will be recognised.
"Our youth in that part of the country must know they have role models in their midst," Tazz says.
"For instance, many people don't know DJ Black Coffee is from the Eastern Cape. He is big, the youth idolise him and, with his recent recognition at the Black Entertainment Television Awards, is a great example to the youth."
Tazz says the Buffalo City Municipality and the Development Agency have pledged to come on board as partners .
Famous for playing Ndoda on Intsika , Tazz has put acting on the back burner to focus on producing and the awards .
"Many people still call me Ndoda, it's crazy. It's a character name that's difficult to shed. It's like the name Tazz, I was given by my agency boss, who couldn't pronounce Mthetheleli."
On iGazi, he is detective Tyeku, tasked with unravelling the mystery murders in a drama, which has become a must-see on Sunday evenings.
In an acting career spanning more than 11 years, Tazz has been on Soul City, Zone 14, Tshisa, 4Play: Sex Tips for Girls, Egoli: Place of Gold, Generations, Home Affairs and Mtunzini.com.
Source: sundayworld