By: Phila Tekana
Earlier this year I was invited to the media sleepover for Big Brother ((BB) Mzansi, where Mandla Hlatshwayo took the R1 million prize. Two days before the official kick-off of the show, I and eight other journos, as well as a mother and daughter pair from Botswana who had won a competition to join us in the house, awkwardly slithered into the house; unsure of what would unfold. It’s a weird feeling being in the house; firstly you are thrust indoors with strangers, your cellphones are confiscated (so you have no distraction to keep you busy), and there’s no TV to watch. But, thank heavens there was music playing in the background. Suprisingly, as we settled in we all got along. No hanky-panky business took place. Phew!
Even though we only spent one night in the house, the thought of having cameras watch my every movement was completely creepy. Going to the bathroom was a nightmare, so much so I left the house without having had a proper bath – the thought of some camera guy watching my naked body freaked me out! So applause goes to Tanzanian, Idris Sultan who was announced winner of BB Africa this past Sunday, for spending 63 days in the house! Tjo! If it were me, I would have crumbled and begged to be voted out. Being under the Big Brother’s eye is an awkward feeling I can’t describe. I guess the $300 000 cash prize was incentive enough for him to last the entire show, huh?!
I caught up with the 21-year-old winner for a chat:
You beat 25 housemates for the $300 000 cash prize, why do you think you won?
I was true to myself and I always stayed human. I think that’s the best prize to give to Africa – an honest person.
How was the nine-week experience in the house?
It was a big challenge not knowing what Africa thought of you, so I didn’t know what to change.
How do you feel about your nickname, Mr Lover Man?
Is that my nickname?
Who was your favourite housemate and why?
Samantha from SA. She was the realest person, and always there when I needed her and the other way around.
What was your most embarrassing moment in the house?
The situation with Laveda. I felt like I wasn’t there for her when she needed me the most as family.
What are you most excited for, post Big Brother?
To go to every single country in Africa and say thank you, leaving my heart all the way.
What was it like to watch footage of yourself the first time?
I don’t like my voice. I must’ve been the guy who spoke with the most mistakes (English that is).
How will you be spending your prize money?
Studying English (Laughs). The money, unfortunately, is not enough for Africa, but I’m giving myself to Africa as they gave themselves to me.
