At just 23 years old, Minke Marais is lighting up screens with her standout performances in Mooiweer en Warm and Dinge van ‘n Kind. Now, she’s taking a nostalgic trip back to her school days to embody Shani Brink, one half of the spirited Brink sisters at the heart of the new Showmax Original telenovela, Reënboogrant.
Inspired by Louise van Niekerk’s beloved ’90s novels, Reënboogrant is set in Tshwane and revolves around the Brink family’s trials and triumphs. Minke shares the screen with Mila de Villiers (Wyfie) as Grade 10 sisters Shani and Sunette, alongside Paul Strydom (Spooksoeker) as their older brother Dolf, a Matric student and head boy. With an ensemble cast featuring Johnny Potsanyane, Righard van Jaarsveld, former Miss Teen Namibia finalist Marelee Ferreira, and newcomer Xander Venter, this telenovela promises drama, dreams, and family dynamics.
Behind the scenes, award-winning talents Desiré Gardner (Magda Louw) as head writer and André Velts as director bring the Brink family’s story to life. Produced by Sonvelt Media, whose ‘n Tyd van Waterpere won a 2024 SAFTA for Best Made For TV Movie, Reënboogrant premieres today on Showmax, with new episodes every Wednesday until June 2025. Fans can also catch it on kykNET from January 17.
Minke Reflects: From Shy Beginnings to Star Power
Minke’s journey to the spotlight started early. “I was terribly shy as a child,” she shares, “so my parents enrolled me in a self-confidence school at five. That’s where it all began.” By high school, acting had become her passion, fuelled by her participation in the ATKV Tienertoneel competition.
“Fun fact,” Minke laughs, “I had my first kiss during a Grade 10 audition. Luckily, I got the role, but when the production didn’t make it past regionals, I was heartbroken.”
After studying drama at university and landing small roles, she gained recognition with Mooiweer en Warm and Nuwejaar. Now, she’s poised for her biggest role yet.
Becoming Shani Brink: A Dreamer with Big Ambitions
Shani Brink isn’t just any character for Minke; she’s someone deeply relatable. “The first thing I wrote in her character bible was, ‘She’s different.’ She’s a dreamer, much like me. She wants to achieve great things and break out of the small world of Reënboogrant. That drew me to her.”
Playing a 16-year-old at 23 was a unique challenge, but Minke embraced it. “The moment I put on the school uniform, it all came flooding back—the blazers, the shoes, the high school energy.”
While the character’s experiences differ from her own, Minke connects with Shani’s emotions. “We’ve all been 16, made mistakes, and dreamed big. Shani’s biggest driver is her dream, and I love exploring how far she’ll go to achieve it.”
Main Image: Showmax