Online Reporter
Durban’s newest reality TV sensation, 30-year-old Gagasi FM radio host Minnie Ntuli, has taken The Real Housewives of Durban (RHOD) season five by storm, dominating social media trends with her bold, unapologetic energy.
Joining RHOD was not on Minnie’s radar.
“It wasn’t part of my plan,” she confesses with a laugh. “But when the opportunity knocked, I saw it as a chance to step out of my comfort zone and show a different kind of Durban woman, one who is real, still figuring it out, and owning it unapologetically.”
The news left her inner circle stunned but supportive. “My mom was like, Ungakhohlwa ukuthi ungubani [never forget who you are].
“My friends were excited but protective. They know I’m sensitive with a spicy streak, and reality TV is no joke.”
Minnie admits that she had reservations before joining the show because she was anxious about how others would perceive her.
People can judge you for breathing incorrectly on camera. Staying authentic was her goal, but the emotional rollercoaster of filming caught her off guard.
“Watching RHOD is pure entertainment. Living it? Living it is an entirely different experience.”
The relentless cameras capture every raw moment, no matter how tired or triggered you are. “It’s intense, but that’s where the growth happens,” she states.
Despite the drama, Minnie formed genuine connections with some castmates.
“I won’t name names; people love to dissect everything, but there are women I truly vibe with, on and off screen,” she says, hinting at friendships that go beyond the show.
Her biggest surprise was self-discovery. “You think you know yourself, then someone pushes your buttons on camera, and you’re like, ‘Oh, that’s me?’” The show exposes your strengths and your shadows.”
Being in the public eye involves more than just glamour. “Some days are tough.”
To cope, Minnie leans on prayer, takes breaks, and guards her peace. “I remind myself that public opinion doesn’t define me. The love of my people does.”
Not everything makes the final cut. “Some conversations and context got lost, especially in the intense moments,” Minnie noted, but still, she owns her actions: “I’m not blaming editing. I’m a work in progress.”
Online criticism stings. “People say hurtful things without knowing the full story,” she sighs.
Her approach? “I take what helps me grow and release the rest. Being ‘flawsome’ means owning your mistakes and giving yourself grace.”
Minnie’s tired of misconceptions. “People see me as this defensive, attitude-driven girl,” she says.
“But I’m soft-hearted, loyal, and thoughtful. I feel deeply, and yeah, I’m fiery when pushed, but I’m never fake.” − Sunday World
