Today marks exactly one year since Sweet Guluva (Akhonamathemba Mbele) was crowned winner of Big Brother Mzansi Season 5 (Umlilo) on March 23, 2025, walking away with the R2 million grand prize.
In that same moment of reflection, Ranks Business has also recognized him as one of the 5-Star Brand Influencers of 2026, a recognition that highlights how quickly he has grown into one of South Africa’s most relevant voices in the brand and influence space.
At the time of his win, he was simply a charismatic 23-year-old from KwaZulu-Natal, known for his energy, charm, and relatability. One year later, that moment has evolved into something much bigger. Sweet Guluva has become one of the most sought-after brand influencers, not by chance, but by intention.
FROM THE HOUSE TO REAL INFLUENCE
When Sweet Guluva left the Big Brother house, he did not disappear into the background. Instead, he leaned into what made people connect with him in the first place. He stayed authentic, culturally grounded, and easy to relate to.
His fanbase, known as Sweet Gs, did not just support him during the show. They stayed with him. That loyalty became a strong foundation, and brands quickly began to take notice.
Opportunities followed naturally. He became a brand ambassador for Mzansi Magic and began working with Dove Men Care, showing up at major events like the Clicks BroScape Fives Championship. More collaborations followed with All Gold Tomato Sauce, Lotto Star, MTN Group, and Konke Kuhamba Kahle Clothing.
Everything about his growth has felt organic, and that is part of what makes it powerful.
RECOGNITION THAT MATCHES THE MOMENT
By the end of 2025, it was already clear that his influence was not just about visibility.
He was named Breakout Digital Star of the Year 2025 by Ranks Africa and featured among Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People 2025. Now, with his inclusion among the 5-Star Brand Influencers of 2026, his journey is entering a more defined phase of recognition.
These milestones reflect consistency, discipline, and the ability to stay relevant beyond the initial hype.
He has also been intentional with his partnerships, promoting products he genuinely believes in and uses. That approach has strengthened trust with his audience and increased his value to brands.
WHY HIS INFLUENCE CONNECTS
In today’s market, people can easily tell when something is not real. Audiences are more aware, and brands are more selective.
His personality still feels grounded. His cultural identity is still visible. His humor still connects. When he promotes something, it feels natural rather than scripted. That authenticity is what keeps people engaged.
He is also versatile. From music, including collaborations with DJ Zinhle, to content creation, lifestyle campaigns, and appearances, he moves across different spaces with ease. That flexibility makes him valuable across multiple industries.
BUILDING SOMETHING THAT LASTS
What is becoming clear is that this is not just about short-term attention.
Sweet Guluva is gradually building something more structured. Through brand partnerships, hosting opportunities, and consistent visibility, he is creating a path that can sustain itself over time.
It is no longer just about being known. It is about being valuable.
A JOURNEY WORTH LEARNING FROM
There is a reason his journey resonates. He did not try to become someone else after the show. He did not rush to chase everything at once. He stayed consistent, stayed authentic, and aligned himself with opportunities that made sense for his brand. That approach is what sets him apart.
ONE YEAR LATER
One year after his Big Brother Mzansi win, Sweet Guluva is no longer just remembered as a former housemate. He is becoming a strong presence in the brand and influence space, someone brands trust and audiences genuinely connect with. And now, as one of the 5-Star Brand Influencers of 2026, his journey reflects what is possible when visibility meets strategy.
Happy one-year anniversary, Sweet Guluva
The journey is clearly just getting started.
About the 5-Star Brand Influencer Rating (RB)
A 5-Star Brand Influencer is a top-tier recognition by RB (Ranks Business), a platform by Ranks Africa, awarded to influencers who demonstrate exceptional influence, credibility, and commercial impact.
This rating is reserved for individuals who consistently show strong audience engagement, authentic brand alignment, and the ability to deliver measurable value for brands across campaigns and platforms.
The selection is based on RB’s evaluation framework, which considers influence strength, audience trust, consistency, versatility, and overall market relevance.
