‘Big Brother Mzansi’ returns: meet the season 5 housemates
Following the return of “Big Brother Mzansi”, Mzansi will be glued to their TV screens all day.
“Big Brother” is one of those shows that provides plenty of entertainment throughout the day.
Now in its fifth season, “Big Brother Mzansi” premiered on Sunday, January 12, with a new host Smash Africa, who has replaced Lawrence Maleka.
The 24 housemates bringing the heat this season are:
Abongile “Abobo” Salli
Abobo is a 30-year-old educator, actor and football enthusiast from Khayelitsha, Cape Town. “I firmly believe that if you truly desire something, you can achieve it.”
Amanda “Mandy Hagan” Makhathini
A 25-year-old supermom from Orange Farm, Joburg, she loves dancing, singing and all things related to beauty. “I need to grow and prove that I’m capable of achieving anything I put my mind to.”
Abongile “Ezra” Mhambi
Ezra a 27-year-old farmer and gym enthusiast from Butterworth, East London, who is always proactive. He loves sports, animals, hunting, cooking and baking. “Knowing a little about many things can always help.”
Akhonamathemba “Sweet Guluva” Mbele
Sweet Guluva, 23, is a student, upcoming actor, model, artist, football player and barber from Cape Town. “I am a bubbly human and very open-minded. I am a person of value and respect.”
Ash-ley Ogle
Ogle, 26, is representing eThekwini. She is a lover of Christ filled with enthusiasm and a passion for fashion. “The sky is too close to earth to be my limit. However, humility will always seize the day.”
Bokang “Beekay” Chephetsa
Beekay, 23, is from Qwaqwa, FreeState. He is passionate about marketing, fashion, events management, and problem-solving.
“I believe life is about creating unforgettable memories! I thrive in competitive environments and love pushing my limits, whether it's conquering a mountain or mastering a new role.”
Bongiwe “Bonni Bee” Booi
Bonni Bee, 27, is a verbal expressionist from Johannesburg who loves cooking and is a people person.
“Depending on the situation, I’m an introvert but, by nature, I’m an extrovert.”
Florence “Kay B” Mphirime
Kay B, 22, is a final year education student from Bloemfontein and CEO of a training academy for aspiring models and actors who love cooking and going out.
“I am a model coach and a freelance professional model.”
Fortunate “Nate” Setwaba
Nate, 25, is a medical orthodontist by profession.
A Johannesburg-based entrepreneur and digital content creator, she is a queer black woman who is also a make-up artist. This brainy baddie is an all-around inspiration.
“I consider myself very funny, I like dark humour and practically bathe in it.”
Hassaan “Savage” Rigney
Savage, 29, is an international fitness director on a cruise ship and currently one of the best top 5 fitness directors across 200 cruise ships worldwide, from Johannesburg.
“Anything is possible when you humble yourself, have a strong mindset, stay positive, and include fun in everything you do.”
Karabo “Jojo” Sejojo
Jojo, 22, is a fun, dramatic, moody, and energetic woman from Bloemfontein who loves reading, editing videos and trading.
“JoJo is a Pastor’s kid, so being around different personalities is no challenge.”
Luzuko Mashalaba
Luzuko, 26, is a Johannesburg-based avid sports enthusiast and reader of literature who loves debating and watching movies and series.
“I like encountering and engaging with people because I believe there’s a lot we can learn from each other rather than being isolated.”
Mathapelo “Mata” Mashila
Mata, 27, popularly known as Rainbow, is an artist from the Vaal who enjoys brainteasers and sporty activities.
“Mata is fearless, strong-willed, adventurous, caring, smart and a fun young woman.”
Mmelesi “Melino” Mothei
Melino, 33, is a super extroverted guy from Soweto who loves hiking, discovering new music and travelling.
“Very adventurous, very passionate I’m shy at times. I’m [an] oxymoron at times. I like being extra.”
Nokulunga “Gugu” Ndabezitha
Gugu, 34, from Johannesburg is known on social media as a prophetess. She loves creating looks for funeral homes and writing stories.
“I believe that the ‘Big Brother’ universe is the only platform that can let me be me. I would like to show the world more about Gugu.”
Philile Nzama
Philile, 31, has an identical twin sister. The Zulu maiden loves reading, participating in sports and partying. “My bright and beautiful smile can light up any room and one could say it's my signature.”
Muziomhle “Muzi-TheMbuzi” Mdluli
Muzi-TheMbuzi, 29, is a photographer and DJ from Joburg who has travelled the world and has been to interesting countries, including Nigeria and Hong Kong.
“I’m a young talented individual who wants to see himself do well in life.”
Nsuku Mabunda
Nsuku, 29, is a model who is currently pursuing a second advanced diploma. “My love for the truth drives me to speak honestly, even when it may be uncomfortable for others.”
Sphamandla “Sipha Lee” Mthembu
Sipha Lee, 29, is a fun and charming die-hard Man United fan and grassroots football coach from Johannesburg.
“I love learning new things, be it a language or a culture. Oh yes, and I have a great sense of humour, haha.”
Siphesihle “Mshini” Lekwadu
Mshini, 23, from Zola, Soweto, is a tutor by profession and a ball of energy who loves football and the spotlight.
“I bring my A-game to everything I do and thrive on trying new and turning ordinary into extraordinary.”
Siphesihle “Siphesihle” Mabaso
Siphesihle, 28, is a financial advisor from Secunda who enjoys modelling, singing and DJing.
A go-getter with a silver tongue, she embraces the phrase “Don’t limit yourself”.
Siyabonga “Swiss” Mlangeni
Swiss, 28, is a cyber security student from Pietermaritzburg who loves coaching primary school basketball, camping and being an MC.
“I know I’m very capable of entertaining and bringing excitement to people, I know I’m destined for more than my current life right now.”
Tyrone Willard
Tyrone, 26, is a charismatic and vibrant multilingual sensation from Johannesburg who loves going to art galleries and museums and sleeping on some days.
“With pride and confidence, I carry myself with an irresistible charm, making everyone feel welcome and included.”
Uyanda Hlangabezo
Uyanda, 23, is a pedagogical practitioner from Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, who loves being out and about.
“I am a man with a positive aura, I’m fun, entertaining and honest. I believe I have all that it takes to win the show.”
∎“Big Brother Mzansi” airs on Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 198). On Sundays, there is a special eviction show at 6pm.