PRODUCED BY: ENJAY PRODUCTIONS & NDINISA PRODUCTIONS

DIRECTOR & MUSIC COMPILER: MFANA JONES HLOPHE

ADMINISTRATION TEAM & PERFORMER: MATSHIDISO NDINISA

CHOREOGRAPHER: NOEL BONGINKOSI NDINISA

MUSIC COMPOSER: MFANA JONES & BHEKI NQOKO 

Thembinkosi Phillip Hlophe, widely recognized as Mfana Jones Hlophe, stands as a prominent figure in both the national and international music and film arenas of South Africa. Born on April 29, 1971, in the vibrant city of Durban, he was raised in the uMlazi Township and received his education within the local community. Despite being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus at the tender age of 16, he remained resolute in pursuing his passion for the arts, undeterred by any obstacles posed by his medical condition.

Blessed with a natural singing talent, Mfana Jones Hlophe seamlessly integrated acting into his repertoire to propel his career forward. His professional acting journey commenced in 1987 at the age of 16, when he secured a role in the stage production "TOWNSHIP FEVER," under the mentorship of the legendary musician, filmmaker, and actor, Sir Mbongeni Ngema.

His association with Ngema continued as he became part of the ensemble for the iconic musical "SARAFINA," embarking on an international tour starting in 1988. This journey culminated in his appearance in the critically acclaimed film adaptation released in 1992, garnering global recognition and accolades. Subsequently, he honed his craft at the Gibson Kente School of Arts under the tutelage of the late Gibson Kente from 1993 to 1995.

In 1996, Mfana Jones Hlophe's commitment to using art for social change led him to collaborate with OXFAM through the African Research and Educational Puppetry Program (AREPP) to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS. His dedication to this cause was underscored by his completion of an HIV and AIDS teaching course, for which he received commendation.

Venturing onto the European stage, he embarked on a tour in 1998 with the EUROSTAGE company, showcasing his talents to international audiences. Returning to South Africa, he assumed a leading role in the production "IPI NTOMBI" from 1998 to 2000, directed by Bertha Egnos and Ken Gampu.

The dawn of the new millennium witnessed Mfana Jones Hlophe's multifaceted talents in action as he acted, directed, and sang in "WAITING," a production by THE BLACK PANTHER, during the years 2000 to 2001. In 2003, he founded ELJAY PRODUCTIONS, later renamed ENJAY PRODUCTIONS in 2015, with a vision to mentor and groom emerging talents in the entertainment industry.

Continuing his quest for knowledge and skill enhancement, he journeyed to France in 2017 to delve into the realms of screenwriting and directing screenplays. Presently, he is engaged in promoting his single "ZUWA NE ZUWA," available on platforms like iTunes, Deezer, and Google Play, with regular airplay on radio stations.

Mfana Jones Hlophe's commitment to using art as a medium for societal enlightenment remains unwavering. Collaborating with Brian Mazibuko, he is currently developing an edutainment theatre production aimed at fostering public understanding and adherence to governmental regulations, particularly those concerning public health and safety, as advocated by the President, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), and the Minister of Health.

From 2019 to 2021, Mfana Jones Hlophe has graced the screen portraying significant characters such as Uncle in "LOVE LIVES HERE," Baba Msizi Dube in "ASINAMALI THE MOVIE," and presently, he is captivating audiences in the telenovela "DIEPCITY."