While Sweet Guluva’s Big Brother Mzansi Season 5 win was celebrated for its drama and fan-driven triumph, it was his authenticity, humility, and respect that solidified his status as a national treasure.
Fans and analysts alike have dissected his gameplay, concluding that these core traits—not just strategy—made him unstoppable.
1. Authenticity: “What you saw is who he is”
Guluva’s refusal to compromise his values, even under the show’s intense scrutiny, became his trademark. His best friend, Sakhile Mabena, echoed this during the finale: “He remained true to himself, and that’s why the world fell in love with him.” Fans noticed this early, rallying behind his genuine interactions, like his unwavering loyalty to housemate Ashley.
Fan Tweet:
“@KhweziKhumalo4:
“Again, we don’t talk enough about how genuine Sweet Guluva is. Like he had so many chances to leave the ship, cause he didn’t know how it’d affect his game, but my boy stuck to his words: ‘I chose you Ashley, I will always choose you.’ God better give me my own SG.” (Source: X)
2. Humility: “My humble sweet little brother”
Despite the spotlight, Sweet Guluva (real name Akhonamathemba Mbele) never lost his down-to-earth demeanor. His gratitude toward fans and acknowledgment of his family’s sacrifices resonated deeply. Supporters from his hometown of Cape Town praised his “humble heart,” noting how he shared his struggles and triumphs with equal grace.
Fan Tweet:
“@Nocy-Bear:
“Akhonamathemba Mbele, my homeboy, you’re loved and blessed. My humble sweet little brother from another mother, we’re voting for you this side.🔥♥️” (Source: X)
3. Respect: “Always acknowledging family, counting on her mother’s fervent prayers”
Guluva’s reverence for his mother and respect for housemates became a defining storyline. Fans applauded how he handled conflicts with maturity, avoiding petty drama. As one viewer (@Hlelo_Gcina) noted in this tweet, his behavior mirrored lessons from home: “I can’t wait for home videos, I want to see the family behind this well mannered, respectful and talented guy. So proud of being your fan Sweet Guluva 🥹❤️ #BBMzansi #SweetGuluvaX2M.”
Fan Tweet:
“@CrystalTamT2:
“Sweet Guluva loved uma-oledy; every time he won, he would say, “Continue praying ma-oledy,” . He never fought anyone, never insulted anyone, never provoked anyone, never connived, and never tried to be someone he wasn’t. He played a clean game.” (Source: X)
Fan Tweet: “@Temitope202266: “This year, BBM taught everyone one big lesson: you can’t buy love and character and can’t pretend to everyone. Whoever you are will surely manifest. Everyone loves sweet Guluva because he is of a good character and exhibits that he was properly brought up.”
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The legacy of a “bubbly human”
Guluva’s own words during the competition—“I am a bubbly human and very open-minded. I am a person of value and respect”—summarize why fans crowned him. In a game often dominated by theatrics, his quiet consistency and moral compass stood out.
As the Sweet Guluva Team wrote in their Instagram tribute: “This chapter may end, but the movement continues.”
With his R2 million prize and newfound platform, Guluva’s traits of authenticity, humility, and respect will likely inspire far beyond the Big Brother house.
Additional fan reactions and voting trends can be found on X (formerly Twitter) using #SweetGuluvaX2M.
