Meet Xoliswa Shwayimba: From Domestic Worker to Shebeen Queen

Xoliswa Shwayimba is the vibrant force behind Rams Inn, a lively shebeen in the heart of Soweto, and one of the standout stars of the Showmax Original reality show, Shebeen Queens. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a shebeen queen has captured the hearts of many. But it’s not just her business acumen that has tongues wagging — her love life, particularly the complex relationship with her long-time partner Mtshali, has sparked plenty of conversation. Mtshali, who still hasn’t divorced his previous two wives, adds fuel to the already fiery storyline surrounding Xoliswa.

From Domestic Worker to Business Owner

Before taking the reins of Rams Inn, Xoliswa worked as a domestic worker and later moved on to a company that produced snuff tobacco. When she returned to her family home in Soweto, she revived Rams Inn, a family business that had been dormant for years.

“My father originally ran the business, but he closed it at some point. When I moved back home and needed a job, we decided to reopen the inn, and I’ve been running it ever since,”.

she shared

Xoliswa’s background is a testament to her resilience and determination, as she transitioned from domestic work to running a thriving shebeen. Her business now serves as a gathering spot for many locals, and despite the tough competition in Soweto, Rams Inn stands out for one reason: people feel free there.

“We don’t force anyone to stay; they come because they want to,”.

she says proudly

Facing the Challenges of Shebeen Life

Running a shebeen comes with its own set of challenges, and for Xoliswa, dealing with disrespectful older men has been one of the most trying aspects.

“The biggest challenge is dealing with disrespectful older men who undermine me, but I just keep quiet and run my business,”.

she explains

But despite the hurdles, Xoliswa remains focused on her business and offers sound advice for aspiring shebeen queens:

“Make sure all your licence paperwork is in order first — that’s crucial.”

The Personal Side of Xoliswa Shwayimba

When it comes to her personal life, Xoliswa’s relationship with Mtshali has kept viewers glued to their screens. The couple has been together for over a decade, yet Mtshali still hasn’t finalized his divorces from his two previous wives. While the situation is complicated, Xoliswa has made it clear that she’s not going anywhere.

“I’m here to stay; he just needs to do the right thing and marry me,”.

she says, even as she admits she doesn’t know why Mtshali hasn’t signed the divorce papers yet

Although their wedding date is not yet set, the couple shares a family dynamic that includes five children between them — though none together. The shebeen business has afforded Xoliswa the opportunity to send her children to school, though she candidly shares that none of them completed matric. However, when it comes to the future of Rams Inn, Xoliswa doesn’t envision her children taking over. Instead, she plans to leave that decision to her fiancé.

Becoming a Reality TV Star

As one of the stars of Shebeen Queens, Xoliswa has adjusted to the spotlight, though she admits it felt strange having cameras around at first.

“It felt strange at first, but I quickly got used to it,”.

she says

Despite the challenges of being on-screen, particularly when it comes to answering personal questions about her relationship, Xoliswa remained her authentic self throughout the filming.

“When people watch the show, I want them to see the real me,”.

she affirms

Bringing the Drama

Xoliswa’s playful and lively nature shines through both in her business and on the show.

“Oh, I definitely brought some drama! I’m playful and love stirring things up a bit,”.

she laughs

Whether it’s through her unapologetic love for fashion, as she’s constantly shopping for new clothes, or her candid discussions about her relationship, Xoliswa keeps viewers entertained.

As she continues to juggle the demands of Rams Inn and her personal life, Xoliswa Shwayimba remains a strong and charismatic figure. With her bold personality and business savvy, Xoliswa has certainly earned her crown as one of Soweto’s most beloved shebeen queens.

Join the conversation: #ShebeenQueens