[#WomenInBiz] Comedy Queen Nina Hastie

What's it like being one of five female nominees for the Savanna Comics' Choice Awards?

It's great. It's about time that women are recognised as funny people. This is a global discourse and, as South Africa is at the forefront of comedy globally, it really is a true reflection of where we are at. It makes me happy, but let's not harp on it. I like to think of us as equal, not the special needs class of the comedy fraternity.

What are your thoughts on your fellow Comic's Pen nominees?

I am blown away that I share this nomination with such phenomenal writers. I've been a big fan of Rob van Vuuren for 15 years, to be nominated in the same category is pretty epic. Camilo, Christopher and Lazola all wrote on an Emmy-nominated show - that's quite a big deal. The calibre of writers nominated in this category is truly world class.

Why do you think the comedy scene is predominantly a male-dominated one?

That's really a historical issue - patriarchy has been quite a big theme for the past 2000 years or so. Comedy is the most honest reflection of any socio-political atmosphere and women didn't feature in roles beyond motherhood and wife stuff for a really long time, so, for men to listen to women creating, and delivering an alternative thought process to the status quo is quite progressive, if you think about it.

What do you think is the biggest issue facing women in your industry today?

Briefs! I wish marketing managers could get past sending briefs that define an act by its age, race and gender before its subject material and experience. "We need like a young black guy, or like an old white woman, etc." How about creating briefs around what you want to get out of the artists and how they can communicate your message effectively, with cultural sensitivity, empathy, professionalism and, most importantly, the ability to be funny!

Based on your experience, what advice would you give to women pursuing a career in comedy?

Don't take no for an answer; don't compare yourself to anyone else, or your journey to anyone else's. Spend as much time as possible figuring out what it is you think about life, who you are, and where you stand. The rest will follow.

Who is your biggest influence/role model/icon?

I have a few mentors and a few heroes. I think that to base your influence on one other human being is irresponsible. What if that person lets you down? Just surround yourself with successful people, people who are solid in their faith (whatever it may be), people who have made decisions in life, and stuck to them - basically people with integrity. You're the average of the five people you spend the most time with, so choose those people carefully.

Any local powerful women you particularly admire?

Yes, absolutely. Celeste Ntuli is a force of nature, Tumi Morake is a powerhouse, Tamsin Anderson (Producer of LNN), Karabo Lediga (writer, director) all of these women face incredible challenges in a male-dominated space, and hold their own. I love them all.

What's your biggest personal achievement to date?

Realising that experiencing failure is more important than experiencing success. That, and getting my black belt in karate.

What's your favourite thing about being a woman?

Having boobs, obviously.

Do you think its important to have a month dedicated to women?

I guess so, but I want to get to the part in the future where it doesn't mean anything either way.

What is the significance of Women's Month in SA?

Women have power in solidarity - that's what was established on 9, August 1956. We must keep remembering that.

What is the role of feminism in SA in 2015?

I think feminism has irresponsible champions sometimes. Feminism is basically the thing where women have equal rights. I guess we will bounce between compensation and over compensation till we get to a happy medium.

What is your message for Women's Month?

Love yourself.

What's next for you?

I'm writing on, and starring in, a hilarious new TV show called Bantu Hour, which first airs on SABC 1 in November.

ninahastie.com

The Savanna Comic's Choice Awards awards ceremony takes place at The Teatro at Montecasino on 15 August. Limited tickets are available to the public, so book now through Computicket. All seats are R280 and include access to the official after party.

Go to www.comicschoice.com to vote and for more information.