Sweet Guluva fans gathered in full force to welcome their hometown hero, Big Brother Mzansi season 5 winner Sweet Guluva, whose real name is Akhonamathemba Mbele.
The highly anticipated homecoming celebration took place at the Nquthu Sportsground in KZN and despite the rainy weather and muddy grounds, thousands turned up to show love to their beloved Sweet Guluva.
Supporters travelled from all corners of the country, from Gauteng to the Northern Cape, proving just how much of an impact the reality star has made.
Former housemates Philile Nzama from Durban and Mmelesi “Melino” Mothei from Joburg were also in attendance, joining in on the celebration of Sweet Guluva’s big win.
Fans and local government showered Sweet Guluva with heartfelt gifts, including a special cheque of R50 000, raised by his supporters, known affectionately as “Sweet G’s.”
The moment was led by fan and president of Sweet Gs Gauteng fans Fundasani Mjakada, who rallied support for the gift through a live campaign earlier in the week.
“We knew he wouldn’t get the R2 million immediately, so we wanted to do something now. We aimed for R100K but reached R50K. It’s not about the money it’s about the love,” said Fundasani.
The crowd was also treated to show-stopping performances by local favorites like Mthandeni SK and Aubrey Qwana, turning the homecoming into a full-blown music festival.
Nquthu Councilor IL Shabalala praised Sweet Guluva. “You didn’t do this just for yourself, but for the whole community. We’re incredibly proud of you.”
“And we thank your family who raised with respect and taught you humanity,” said Shabalala.
One fan, Nonkululeko Sabela, made the trip all the way from the Northern Cape just to see him in person.
“I’ve supported him from day one. He is my home boy even though I’m based far away now, I had to come back and celebrate with my hometown boy,” she said.
An emotional Sweet Guluva addressed the packed stadium with gratitude.“I don’t have enough words to thank you. This stadium is full because of me, and that means everything.”
“To my family, my supporters, and the entire community of Nquthu thank you for raising and believing in me. Let’s continue supporting each other, just like you supported me.”
From reality TV star to hometown hero, Sweet Guluva’s journey is one for the books and it’s only just beginning.
