Businesswoman and cast member of The Real Housewives of Durban and The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa Angel Ndlela recently unpacked her journey with the new ladies.
Angel joined one of the most talked about shows in Mzansi, The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa alongside Madam Evodia, Annie Mthembu, Jojo Robinson and Christall Kay from South Africa, as well as Dr Catherine Masitsa and Zena Nyambu from Nairobi, and Princess Jecoco and Mariam Timmer from Nigeria.
What was your initial reaction when you got the call to join The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa?
I remember I was on a flight to Durban from Polokwane when I received the call, about to take off. I was so shocked at how God’s grace can locate you for things I genuinely never saw coming. I cried because I’m one of the cast members who were constantly doubted in terms of “belonging”. Not that I’ve ever needed validation, but this was a stamp that I definitely belong in the world of Housewives.
How would you describe the overall energy of the trip compared to your usual franchise?
Absolutely amazing. At no point was I nervous or anxious about meeting anyone; in fact, I made it a point that I would enjoy this to the fullest, not allowing anything to make me feel otherwise.
What surprised you the most about filming with Housewives from other African cities and countries?
What surprised me the most was that we were picked accordingly, we have such similar personalities, some more extreme than others, but we were all very strong, opinionated and assertive. It was an interesting dynamic to see play out cause nobody backs down and that makes for great television.
What personal goals did you set for yourself before joining the cast?
I wanted to fully be myself. Season 4 of RHOD, I came in hot, Season 5, I was a bit more reserved, but this time, I was myself fully. I owed it to myself to just be me.
Who did you connect with the fastest, and why?
I actually formed a stronger bond with Jojo; it really grew our sisterhood. I also gravitated towards Jecoco: I love her energy so much.
Did the fight with Jojo catch you off guard?
Not really. I’m always ready for anything with anyone. Life and this show have taught me to always be aware.
Did any conflicts on the show carry into real life after filming?
I can’t reveal too much: just keep watching, and you will be surprised.
What was the most intense moment of the trip from your perspective?
There’s a scene we shot at Christ the Redeemer. There was a shift in me that changed my life forever, I kid you not.
Is there anything you said or did that you wish you could take back?
There are a few things I wish I had done differently.
If you could cast anyone for the show from any city, who would your dream cast be?
I would add myself, Brinette, Mrs Mops, Madame, LaC, Jojo, Londie, Mariam, Chioma, Jecoco, Dr C and Annie. Hell, I could go on, but these are my first picks.
As one of the youngest women in the franchise, what has the show taught you about yourself and other people?
The show has taught me just how strong, resilient and funny I am about other people, it has taught me that if you do not conform to the box they want to confine you in, they resort to cruelty, which again taught me that I can take it. I am strong like that.
Which Housewife is the funniest when the cameras stop rolling?
I’m sorry, Christall was something else, she can be annoying at times, but she is very funny.
Who is the most different onscreen versus offscreen?
Dr C. She is much nicer and more mature off-screen. I don’t know what happens when the cameras go on.
Why should people continue watching?
People should continue watching because it will get even juicier. This is hands-down the best show to ever come out of Africa.
Also see: WATCH: Meet the cast of ‘The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip Africa’
