The Real Housewives of Durban Season 5 premiered exclusively on Showmax two weeks ago and has already become one of the most talked-about shows in South Africa, regularly trending on X.
“This is my favourite show from The Real Housewives franchise. It’s pure escapism—glitzy, glamorous, and full of unfiltered drama.”
As IOL’s Debashine Thangevelo said in her glowing four-star review,
Among the fresh faces shaking things up this season is 30-year-old Kwanele Kubheka—a wife, mother of four, entrepreneur, and social media influencer. In an exclusive interview, she shares her journey of joining the hit series, confronting personal challenges, and stepping into the public eye with grace and authenticity.
Finding Her Voice
Despite her polished on-screen presence, Kwanele admits that being in front of the camera didn’t come naturally.
“I’ve always been a naturally shy person… but I felt it was time to challenge myself. I wanted to see if I could be more than just the quiet, reserved version of myself.”
she says
Joining The Real Housewives of Durban became the ultimate leap outside her comfort zone.
A Mirror to Her Reality
Watching herself on-screen was both jarring and empowering.
“Some scenes came out in ways I didn’t expect but ultimately they captured the real me,”.
she says
Despite initial scepticism, Kwanele has embraced the process and is proud of how her story is being told.
Opening Up About Marriage
In a bold move, Kwanele chose to share the highs and lows of her marriage on the show.
“Social media shows the rose petals, cute cards, and perfectly posed pictures but it doesn’t show the tough moments. We’re not perfect, but we’re navigating it all together.”
she explains
Her openness has resonated deeply with fans, inspiring conversations about authenticity in relationships.
Real Connections and Real Drama
Unlike the stereotypical reality TV experience, Kwanele says she’s built genuine bonds with the other Housewives.
“Each of us brings something unique to the table,”.
she says
“The scrutiny is intense… but I’m doing my best to stay true to myself.”
The show has also given her a whole new level of visibility:
Learning Through the Lens
Through it all, Kwanele’s biggest takeaway has been personal growth.
“As a Housewife, I’ve been stereotyped and judged in ways I wasn’t expecting but I’ve learned to rise above it,”.
she reflects
Her mantra? Stay grounded, stay real, and keep pushing forward.
Behind the Glam
Being on The Real Housewives of Durban has also changed how Kwanele views the show she once watched as a fan.
“The cameras are always rolling and you have to be ‘on’ all the time. It’s exhausting but also exhilarating.”
The emotional toll, she notes, is very real—and vastly different from being just a viewer.
Setting the Record Straight
Kwanele also wants fans to know that her calm and composed nature is not a performance.
“I’m a very private person. I don’t feel the need to dramatise things… I’ve shared my truth on the show and that’s what matters most.”
She hopes audiences can respect her journey and take her story for what it is—raw, real, and unfolding.
As The Real Housewives of Durban continues to trend and spark conversations nationwide, Kwanele’s voice is one that stands out—not for being loud, but for being honest. From self-doubt to self-assurance, her journey is one many can relate to.
Join the conversation: #RHODurban
