By Prashirwin Naidu
Actress, producer, and entrepreneur Nolo Phiri is no stranger to transformation—both on and off screen. From her breakout TV roles to founding Girl Next Door Media, she continues to evolve with bold intention. Recently, she added a new chapter to her journey: becoming a brand partner for Jetour, the luxury-meets-function SUV brand expanding across South Africa. We caught up with her to talk cars, creativity, and the courage to start something new.
You’ve gone from actress to producer and now entrepreneur. How has the creative process shaped your identity?
It’s shaped almost everything. When I started acting, I didn’t realise how much being on set would open me up to the broader world of storytelling. That curiosity led me to producing and eventually to founding my company.
Creativity also taught me that nothing is done in isolation. You need everyone: the boom operator, the editor, the makeup artist, to bring a story to life. That grounded me. It helped me see the bigger picture.
Were there times when you doubted yourself, even as your career progressed?
Absolutely. I’ve dealt with impostor syndrome. I’d ask myself, “Am I here because someone vouched for me, or because I truly earned it?” That feeling doesn’t always come at the start, it creeps in after you’re already in the room.
What helped me overcome it was doing the actual work. Once I started training on productions, building a portfolio, I realised: I belong here. My family also grounds me. They’re supportive, but they don’t sugarcoat things. They keep me honest.
What are your current creative and business aspirations?
I want agency, the ability to say yes to projects that genuinely excite me and have a meaningful impact. Through Girl Next Door Media, I’m creating content that entertains but also has a strong value proposition.
I want to help shift the industry toward sustainability. Eventually, I want to act just for the love of it—not because I need the cheque. By 40, I’d love to own a platform, or at least have cracked a model that allows me to keep creating and empowering others sustainably.
Mentorship seems to be important to you. Why is giving back part of your mission?
Because someone gave me a chance, I entered the industry through opportunities that didn’t require me to have money or connections. I want to create those same entry points for others—workshops, internships, shadowing. Film school is expensive. If I can create access through the work I do, that’s a legacy worth building. We need structures that allow talent to grow, not just survive one production cycle and disappear.
What are the hardest lessons you’ve had to learn along the way?
One, that self-love is crucial. I wish I’d affirmed myself more when I was younger. Two, failure isn’t fatal. Things not working out often lead you to better paths. And three, trust your intuition; it won’t always be right, but it will be honest.
What would you say to anyone feeling creatively stuck?
Jump. Don’t wait to be pushed. That creative bug you feel? It’s there for a reason. Start small if you have to go to the theatre, write something, or volunteer on a set. The more you honour it, the more the universe meets you halfway.
You’ve recently partnered with Jetour. What drew you to the brand?
Jetour’s timing was aligned with where I’m at in life. I’m in a space of expansion, and the X70 Plus felt like a reflection of that—it’s sleek, grounded, and forward-thinking. I love that they’re tapping into new markets with something that feels both premium and practical. It honestly felt like a step up—like, “Okay, this is the next chapter.”
On that note, what was your first car, and what did it mean to you at the time?
It was a Toyota Tazz, and I was in love with it! That car gave me freedom. I could go to auditions, be on time, and not have to ask for rides. It gave me independence and made me feel like I was truly stepping into adulthood.
How would you describe your driving style, and does it say anything about your
personality?
I’m a pretty calm and focused driver. I think it reflects how I approach life: structured, mindful, yet able to shift gears when needed. Long drives are when I do some of my best thinking.
Final thoughts for your fans and supporters?
Thank you for seeing me, especially as I evolve. I’m doing the work to ensure what I create isn’t just meaningful to me, but opens doors for others. There’s so much more I want to give. Watch this space.
