Sweet Guluva Biography

Sweet Guluva Biography

A Rising Star of South Africa’s New Generation

Akhonamathemba Mbele-Zwane professionally known as Sweet Guluva has become a household name in South Africa through a blend of talent, authenticity, and unstoppable drive. Hailing from KwaZulu-Natal, specifically Nquthu in the Umzinyathi District, this multi talented young man first caught national attention when he won the fifth season of Big Brother Mzansi – Umlilo in 2025. Since Sweet Guluva Big Brother of 2025, he has diversified his profile as a musician, model, actor, entrepreneur, and property investor.

What sets him apart is not just his charisma, but his sincerity, cultural pride, and vision for generational success. Sweet Guluva Biography is not just a timeline of accomplishments, it is an inspiration for youth from rural towns with big dreams. Scroll down to get all details of Sweet Guluva Biography.

Early Life and Cultural Roots in KwaZulu-Natal Of Sweet Guluva Biography

Birthplace and Background

Akhonamathemba Mbele-Zwane was born and raised in Nquthu, a small rural town in KwaZulu-Natal province. As of 2025, Sweet Guluva born October 22, 2001. As of 2025, Sweet Guluva hasn’t publicly shared his exact birthdate. However, during interviews on Big Brother Mzansi, he stated that he was in his early twenties at the time of filming. His devout and disciplined Zulu family shaped his early life through traditional values and spiritual grounding. He often speaks with reverence about his upbringing, particularly the role of his mother, who encouraged his dreams and remained his guiding force even after his rise to fame.

Sweet Guluva’s mother is a strong and supportive woman who played a major role in his success. She raised him in Nquthu, KwaZulu-Natal, and encouraged him to follow his dreams, including helping him apply for Big Brother Mzansi. She joined him in several interviews and public events, where people praised her humility, spiritual values, and deep love for her son. Although she hasn’t shared her full name or exact age, many fans admire her for her wisdom and guidance.

Akhonamathemba Mbele-Zwane grew up in a community with limited resources, which shaped his humility, ambition, and strong cultural identity. His fluency in isiZulu and English, combined with his easy charisma, would later become his trademark, resonating with a wide South African audience. Most public photos of Sweet Guluva and his family come from events.

Interests and Talents in Childhood

From an early age, Sweet Guluva exhibited a broad range of interests. He showed talent in music, football, and even grooming. He was already cutting hair in his teens and aspired to open his own barbershop one day. However, music was always closest to his heart. Before ever stepping onto the Big Brother stage or into a football field, he dreamt of becoming a musician. He wrote and performed his own music long before the cameras found him, blending genres like hip-hop, house, Gqom, and amapiano to reflect his multi-dimensional personality.

The Breakthrough – Big Brother Mzansi Umlilo

Entry into the Reality TV Space

In early 2025, Sweet Guluva entered the Big Brother Mzansi house for the fifth season, titled Umlilo. As a contestant, he stood out immediately not for theatrics or manipulation, but for his grounded personality. Unlike others who played strategic games, he insisted on remaining true to himself. In his own words, he was there to represent the young people from rural towns, to inspire them through authenticity rather than spectacle.

His entry into the show was a result of encouragement from his mother, who actually sent him the audition link. Despite the glitz and high pressure environment of reality television, he managed to maintain his sincerity throughout the show, which eventually won him the hearts of millions of South African viewers.

Key Moments and Milestones on the Show

During his time on Big Brother, Sweet Guluva had a few defining moments that cemented his popularity. He only became Head of House once, but that didn’t matter to fans. His low-key but warm energy made him a natural favorite. One of the highlights of his time on the show was his close relationship with fellow housemate Ashley Ogle. Their chemistry drew attention on social media and outside the house, with fans even speculating on the future of their bond post show.

Another standout moment was his emotional reaction during the finale. When they announced his name as the winner, he looked visibly overwhelmed. In later interviews, he admitted that he felt so nervous he almost wet himself. That moment he was real, and relatable and it made more fans. He was not just a contestant; he was one of them.

Victory and Immediate Aftermath

R2 Million Prize and Celebrations

After winning Big Brother Mzansi, Sweet Guluva walked away with a life changing R2 million, plus an additional R27,500 from the LottoStar challenge. The response from his hometown was massive. When the hosts announced his name as the winner, he appeared visibly overwhelmed. In later interviews, he revealed that he had been so nervous, he nearly wet himself. Despite heavy rain, his homecoming party was a huge success. Fans gifted him items including a MacBook, PS5, clothing steamer, smart TV, HD camera, and R20,000 in cash is a testament to the love and respect he earned.

Emotional Connection with Supporters

One of the defining features of his stardom is the unique relationship he maintains with his fanbase, known affectionately as the “Sweet Guluva.” Whether it’s through Instagram shoutouts or public appearances, Sweet Guluva consistently expresses deep gratitude to his supporters. His public message after receiving the gifts read, “Ngiyabonga kakhulu … Nginithanda ngoThando luka Love!” showing his affection in isiZulu and English a reflection of his hybrid identity.

The Artist Emerges – Launching a Music Career

Debut Single and Musical Identity

True to his word, Sweet Guluva wasted no time launching his music career. In June 2025, he dropped his debut single titled “Sweet Guluva,” collaborating with DJ Zinhle, Mike TC, Treezy T, and TSPG Prayer. The track quickly gained traction for its infectious beat and genre blending style. It was clear that this was more than just a one time post reality TV track, Sweet Guluva had serious musical aspirations.

He describes music as his first and truest passion. His plan includes releasing more singles, music videos, and eventually a full album. He aims to experiment with sounds from amapiano and house to hip-hop and Gqom. His long-term goal is to work with major artists like Kabza de Small, DJ Maphorisa, and DJ Lag, positioning himself at the intersection of underground and mainstream sounds.

Long-Term Artistic Vision

Sweet Guluva isn’t just following trends, he is building a brand. His sound blends township roots with contemporary energy. He has publicly expressed a desire to stay true to his identity while also exploring broader African and international audiences. With his growing fan base and industry connections after Big Brother, he stands ready to make an impact locally and across the continent.

Beyond Music – Expanding His Empire

Property and Entrepreneurship

Sweet Guluva has proven himself to be more than a one dimensional entertainer. Soon after his Big Brother win, he revealed that he would be investing a portion of his prize money into real estate. He credited his mother once again for this direction, as she had long experience in housing matters and helped him begin the journey. His real estate plans involve buying and developing properties that will secure financial sustainability for his family and future.

Barbering, Football, and Fashion

Most photos of Sweet Guluva and his family are from events. Even with newfound fame, he hasn’t turned his back on this talent. In interviews, he says he still cuts hair, especially for close friends. His dedication to this craft symbolizes his humility.

He also has dreams in the sporting world. Although not as heavily emphasized, football remains a passion, and he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of returning to the field. He hinted at modelling opportunities and proves he has the looks and presence to succeed.

Faith, Family, and Personal Philosophy

Grounded in Spirituality

Throughout all his interviews and public messages, Sweet Guluva often references his faith. He considers prayer a vital part of his daily routine and credits divine guidance for much of his success. In a culture that often rewards hype and bravado, his spiritual grounding offers a refreshing contrast.

Deep Family Bonds

His mother plays a central role in his life. She is more than a parent, she is also a mentor, advisor, and motivator. Her support, from his Big Brother audition to his property ventures, reflects a close-knit family built on love and ambition. He also has siblings and cousins who support him behind the scenes. Their presence helps him stay grounded as his fame grows.

Public Perception and Legacy in the Making

Media and Critical Reception

Media outlets across South Africa have praised Sweet Guluva’s rise. From Sowetan Live to OkMzansi, critics say his “no-strategy” approach and humble nature broke the usual reality show pattern. Critics called his debut single “catchy and full of heart.” They also described his business moves as mature and forward-thinking.

Representing Rural Youth

Perhaps his biggest legacy is yet to come. For millions of young people in small towns across South Africa, Sweet Guluva is more than an entertainer. He’s proof that dreams can travel from dusty streets to national screens, from makeshift home studios to music charts, from barber shops to boardrooms. His story speaks directly to rural talent longing for a voice.

Looking Forward – Future Aspirations

Sweet Guluva’s journey is just beginning. He plans to release more music and may star in local films or drama series. He also aims to grow his real estate portfolio. Additionally, he has hinted at launching mentorship programs to help youth in entertainment, business, and personal growth.

If he continues to evolve with the authenticity and purpose that brought him this far, there is no limit to what Sweet Guluva can achieve. As an artist, entrepreneur, and cultural figure, he is ready to make a lasting impact on South African pop culture.

Conclusion of Sweet Guluva Biography – A Story Still Being Written

Sweet Guluva’s journey from the quiet hills of Nquthu in KwaZulu-Natal to the national stage is a story that resonates far beyond entertainment. It’s a narrative of grit, grace, and grounded ambition. As a Big Brother Mzansi winner, he did more than just take home a grand prize, he carried with him the dreams of thousands of young South Africans from rural areas who saw in him a reflection of their own potential.

But what makes Sweet Guluva Biography truly captivating isn’t just what he has achieved so far, it’s what he’s building for the future. Whether through his music, entrepreneurial ventures, public speaking, or efforts to give back, he’s crafting a legacy that blends artistry, identity, and aspiration.

In a world hungry for authenticity, Sweet Guluva offers something rare: someone who is unapologetically himself. As his career unfolds, one thing is certain, he’s not just riding a wave of fame. He’s paving a road for others to follow.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of Sweet Guluva Biography