Person Biography:
Benu Mabhena is a talented actress who has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. Born to a family with a rich cultural heritage, Benu's parents and five brothers hail from Zimbabwe, while she and her sister were born in London. The family's nomadic lifestyle, moving between Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa, Lesotho, and finally settling in San Francisco, has had a profound impact on Benu's life.
Growing up, Benu was drawn to the world of acting, telling stories and doing impressions at the tender age of eight. She was inspired by a stage production of "Les Miserables" in her seventh grade class, and her passion for acting only grew stronger. In high school, Benu wrote and recited poetry, and later joined a drama group, performing in community theatre, acting in student films, and writing and recording songs in the studio.
After graduating from Diablo Valley College with an Associate Degree in Education, Benu moved to Southern California to pursue her dreams. Her big break came when she landed the role of Jassie Vandy, the wife of Djimon Hounsou, in the critically acclaimed film "Blood Diamond" (2006). The film, which earned five Oscar nominations and won five awards, cemented Benu's status as a rising star.
In addition to her work on "Blood Diamond," Benu has appeared in other notable projects, including the Web series "NightWalkers" and the American Film Institute's "Princess" (2006). She has also made appearances on other TV shows and films, including "Life on the Edge: A Global Crisis" (2008). Today, Benu resides in Los Angeles, continuing to pursue her passion for acting and making a name for herself in the industry.
