Big Brother Mzansi Season 5 winner, Sweet Guluva, has found himself at the center of social media backlash after announcing a fundraising campaign just days after walking away with the R2 million grand prize.
Sweet Guluva, who became a fan favorite during the Umlilo Edition of Big Brother Mzansi, surprised many when he revealed plans to launch a fundraising initiative. The announcement sparked mixed reactions, with some fans criticizing the move as unnecessary, while his loyal supporters quickly defended him and even pledged donations.
The reality star took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, 25 March 2025, to express gratitude for the love and support he received during his time in the Big Brother house. “I just want to thank each and every one of you for your love, support, and votes. This journey wouldn’t have been possible without you,” Sweet Guluva wrote.
However, it was his follow-up announcement about the fundraising campaign that left many South Africans stunned. He informed his followers that he would share official donation details the following day, warning them to be wary of scammers trying to take advantage of the situation. “If it’s not posted on my official pages, it’s not legit,” he warned.
This move came shortly after Uyanda, the second runner-up of the show, also received support from fans through a similar fundraising campaign. Uyanda’s fan base, known as the Honey Badgers, raised an impressive R170,000 in just a few days, with a target set at R2 million. This campaign gained traction and widespread praise, inspiring Sweet Guluva’s own initiative.
However, Sweet Guluva’s fundraiser was met with mixed reactions. Many social media users questioned why the winner of such a significant cash prize would need to solicit more funds from the public.
One user, @SamkeloS___, commented, “You literally just won 2 million nkabi yam,” expressing disbelief at the request for donations. Another, @TshepangMitch, added, “The greed they mentioned in the Bible,” criticizing the move as excessive.
Some fans defended Sweet Guluva, insisting that they voluntarily asked for his banking details because they wanted to “spoil” him after his hard work during the 72-day competition. @yabe_l wrote, “Don’t worry about those complaining. Focus on us, we want to spoil you senseless. You deserve all the finer things life has to offer.”
Meanwhile, others felt the appeal for donations should have been managed by a fan page rather than Sweet Guluva himself. “You have just opened yourself up for dragging and name-calling,” warned @VictoriaNw44657.
In related news, Big Brother Mzansi made headlines when actor Wiseman Mncube apologized to contestant Ashley Ogle for racially insensitive comments regarding her relationship with Sweet Guluva. The incident sparked conversations online about race and respect within the entertainment industry.
As the fundraiser gains attention, South Africans remain divided. Some see it as an expression of appreciation from fans, while others view it as unnecessary, considering Sweet Guluva’s recent winnings.
Whether the campaign succeeds or fades, it has undoubtedly sparked debate on how reality TV stars should navigate newfound fame and fortune.