Winner, winner! Mphowabadimo talks about her Biggie domination

In a tense 2-hour-long finale, Big Brother Mzansi Season 3 came to an end on Sunday, 3 April and Michelle Vundla, popularly known as Mphowabadimo, was crowned the winner. She walked away with the boasting rights and the R2 million grand prize.

At the last Sunday live eviction ceremony, just 5 Housemates remained: Tulani Madala, aka Tulz, was evicted first, followed by Libo Njomba and Themba Mabaso. The final 2 contestants, Mphowabadimo and Gershwin Mthombeni, aka Gash1, were called to the stage before Big Brother Mzansi host Lawrence Maleka announced the winner. With former Housemates, the live audience, and viewers across the country on the edge of their seats, Lawrence finally broke the tension and he announced that Mphowabadimo had won. 27-year-old Mphowabadimo, from Daveyton in the east of Johannesburg (where a huge Biggie Block Party was held in her honour), leapt for joy while confetti fell on the ground.

Mphowabadimo’s win is momentous as she’s the first sangoma and woman to win the show. “I’ve just made history,” said Mphowabadimo when we caught up with her following her triumph. “Despite all the challenges, I kept my head held high and I prevailed. [Winning Big Brother Mzansi] proves that nothing is impossible and that women are just as strong. We can achieve anything,” adds Mphowabadimo, who shares more about her Big Brother Mzansi journey below.

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The last woman standing

Congratulations on winning Big Brother Mzansi Season 3! Take us through your emotions.

“I’m proud of myself for surviving 71 days in the House and winning. I’m still overwhelmed and honestly, I haven’t had the time to fully process my emotions. I’m taking each hour as it comes. Not only winning but being part of Big Brother Mzansi was an exciting and humbling experience.”

What’s the first thing that you’re going to do when you arrive home?

“I haven’t gone home yet as I’m still busy with [press runs]. For now, I’m at a hotel. I thought that when I left Biggie’s House the first thing that I was going to do was switch on my phone, but I actually switched on the TV and caught up with the news. After being in Biggie’s House for more than 2 months, it’s interesting to find out about what’s taking place in the world.”

What was the most interesting news headline you’ve seen so far?

“I was surprised to learn that there’s war in the Ukraine and that there’s a petrol hike in South Africa. When you’re in the House, you’re far removed from the “world”.

Your community in Daveyton celebrated your win with a massive block party. Are you going to continue with the festivities when you get home?

“Definitely. I’d like to celebrate with my community, maybe I’ll host a homecoming party – nothing is set in stone yet. We’ll see when I arrive home.”

You were nominated for eviction 5 times but survived and came back even stronger. What kept you going?

“Despite the tasks, I was hopeful, and I had a positive outlook. Biggie kept telling the Housemates: “Don’t worry about tomorrow but let tomorrow worry about itself.” I kept that saying in my head and when I was on the chopping block, I wouldn’t worry but cross each hurdle as it presented itself.”

Why do you think you were nominated so many times?

“I believe that I was a threat. Word had it in the House that I was dangerous and someone who shouldn’t be trusted. I played a strong game, which kept the Housemates on their toes.”

What were your expectations when you entered Big Brother Mzansi and were they met?

“As a Big Brother Mzansi superfan, I entered the competition thinking that I was going to have fun, sit around all day, and throw parties every other day, but I was wrong. We took part in challenges that tested us physically and mentally. We also had chores to complete. Basically, I got way more than I expected. I had a life changing experience, which helped me grow and become a better version of myself. I will forever be grateful for entering Big Brother Mzansi.”

You stepped on a few toes while you were in the House. Talk to us about the clashes and friendships you made in the House.

“I certainly did clash with some of the women. We didn’t see eye to eye, and they described me as blunt. Some even said that I was [overbearing]. What I’ve noticed is that in the House, anything can trigger you. The other Housemates and I could have an argument over a slice of bread or cheese – we’d have a fall out over nothing, really, and it was a spur of the moment thing. On the other hand, I’m a sharpshooter and if I didn’t like something or approve, I’d voice my opinion. With regards to the friendships I made in the House, I’m happy with all the people I grew closer to. As the numbers started dwindling, I formed a friendship with Nthabii, Terry and Sis Tamara.”

Was there a point where you thought you could win Big Brother Mzansi?

“Of course. When I got to the Top 10, I looked around and noticed that I was around strong competitors. They’d also survived elimination several times, [they were likable, and they had bold personalities] and there was a level playing field. I was excited to go head-to-head with them.”

What are your plans now that you’re out of the House?

“I need to go back to the drawing board and realign my life. Just two nights ago, I was Mphowabadimo – a Housemate in Big Brother Mzansi Season 3 and now, I’m a winner and a millionaire. I’m going to return to my vision board and see where to go from here. For now, I’m happy and eager for the future.”

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