Get to Know Abongwe Mseleku Who Gets Candid About Life in the Spotlight
Fame doesn’t come with a manual—especially when it finds you young, still figuring out who you are. For Abongwe Mseleku, growing up in front of South Africa on Uthando neS’thembu meant learning to balance visibility with vulnerability. As the daughter of Musa Mseleku and a voice in the next generation of a prominent polygamous family, Abongwe has had to navigate both tradition and identity under the public eye.
Her journey into adulthood—marked by bold self-expression, a love for storytelling and a growing platform—has been anything but private. Abongwe is learning to hold space for both her truth and the expectations that come with her surname.
In this candid conversation, she reflects on the pressures of public life, the freedom of authenticity, and the power of telling your own story before others tell it for you.
Abongwe Mseleku | SUPPLIED
UPSIDES
Creative doors opened wide — Being in the public eye has definitely helped open doors I never imagined possible. One of the biggest highlights was getting to collaborate with Nompumelelo on my cooking series. It wasn’t just a partnership—it was a chance to bring together creativity, passion, and purpose in a way that felt so authentic and exciting. That opportunity came purely because of the platform I’ve been given.
Invited into spaces I used to only see online — Sometimes I sit back and think, “Wow, I’m really here.” Like when I got invited to the Big Zulu event. That’s something I never imagined myself attending a few years ago as an invited guest. These kinds of experiences make me realise how much exposure and access being known has given me—and I’m genuinely grateful for every single one.
Boosted my confidence in social settings — Before all of this, I used to be more reserved. But now, because I engage with so many different people regularly—many of whom I’ve never met before—my social skills have grown so much. I’ve become better at conversations, navigating different personalities, and just connecting with people in meaningful ways.
Turning content into currency — One of the best parts of being well-known is that I get to do what I love, like influencing. Creating content—and how people are keen on watching me still amazes me. It’s empowering, honestly.
Turning passion into partnerships — My love for cooking has opened amazing doors! Because of my platform, I’ve been able to partner with brands like Rama and Ocean Basket — which is honestly such a full-circle moment. I get to do what I love and work with brands I’ve admired for years.
Abongwe Mseleku | SUPPLIED
DOWNSIDES
You don’t get to have bad days in peace — One of the hardest parts is having to smile and be cheerful in public even when I’m not okay inside. I remember when my dad got really sick—I was hurting and trying to process so much, but still had to show up and be ‘okay’ for people. It’s like there’s no room for us to just be human sometimes.
Safety becomes a concern — I don’t think people realise how scary it can be when strangers know where you live. There have been times when people randomly showed up at our home just to greet us, which might seem harmless to them—but for us, it can feel invasive and unsettling. Your personal space stops feeling like your own.
Questioning people’s intentions — It’s hard to tell who genuinely wants to get to know me for who I am, and who’s only here because of the name or status. That uncertainty can be really lonely at times because you’re constantly second-guessing people’s motives.
Limited freedom in the smallest ways — I miss the little things—like being able to walk to the shop in pyjamas without worrying about who’s watching or what they’ll say. Every small action feels like it has to be curated or considered. It’s a level of pressure that people don’t always see, but it’s real.
Your family drama becomes public drama — When your family is famous and on reality TV, even private moments—like disagreements or family feuds—become public knowledge. It’s tough knowing that people feel entitled to comment on things that are actually very personal.