The reality TV star opens up about public opinion, her relationship with her mother Letoya Makhene, and the misconceptions viewers have about the famous family.
By Bulelwa Hoala
The Makhenes has become one of South Africa’s most talked-about reality shows since premiering on Mzansi Magic in April.
The series offers viewers an intimate look into one of the country’s most recognisable families, tackling everything from love and betrayal to mental health, addiction and healing.
One of the biggest storylines has centred on former Generations: The Legacy actress Letoya Makhene, who has reflected on heartbreak, public scrutiny, failed relationships, and rebuilding her life.
The show has also explored the struggles faced by Letoya’s sisters, including Pauline Makhene’s journey with mental health, trauma and emotional healing, as well as younger sister Gontse Makhene’s battle with addiction and its impact on the family.
Letoya’s daughter, Nubia Mangezi, and her relationship with her mother have also taken centre stage.
The two have had honest conversations about unresolved resentment, family dynamics and the emotional impact of divorce.
As Letoya Makhene’s first-born child and only daughter, Nubia has impressed audiences with her honesty, emotional intelligence and willingness to have difficult conversations on camera.
Mzansi Magic recently caught up with her to chat about her journey on the show so far.
Why viewers relate to her honesty
One of the biggest talking points on the show has been Nubia’s ability to communicate openly with older family members, even during emotionally charged moments, which she credits to years of personal growth and self-reflection.
“I believe self-awareness is the constant understanding that we are flawed humans who are bound to make mistakes and bound to grow and change. We just need to be willing enough to acknowledge our flaws and want to do better.”
She says she was surprised by how many older viewers embraced her honesty.
“I expected a lot more viewers, particularly older viewers, to view me as disrespectful regardless of my intentions. So witnessing so many older viewers understand it for what it is was quite promising.”
Building an identity beyond the family name
Although she comes from a well-known family, Nubia says she has never felt defined by her surname.
“I’ve never seen myself as just an extension of my family, but as my own being, writing my own story, building my own opinions, views and interests,” she says.
She adds that she has always had the freedom to carve out her own path.
“I’ve always had the capacity to take up space and not be compared to or expected to do anything like my family,” she says.
What viewers get wrong about The Makhenes
The reality show has showcased a lot difficult conversations and family disagreements, leading some viewers to assume there is constant conflict behind the scenes.
According to Nubia, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
“Apparently, people think we stay beefing or that we only get along on camera for the show. But no, we’ve got so much love for one another,” she says.
Some of her favourite moments from the show are the scenes that highlight the bond between the younger members of the family.
“There’s such a profound love we share and when those moments are captured and seen, I feel a sense of joy.”
The Makhenes airs every Sunday at 7 PM on Mzansi Magic.
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