30-04-2025
Lo Sithole and Fafa Kubheka get real about joining RHODurban S5
Africa's longest running Housewives series, The Real Housewives of Durban, offers pure escapism and unfiltered drama.
New castmates Lo Sithole and Kwanele 'Fafa' Kubheka have quickly formed a close bond over the five episodes unwinding with spa days together and catching up over the inevitable drama that occurs at each of the cast's sit-down events, including Nonku Williams' apparent misrepresentation of Lo's Royal Ascot high tea event.
A 40-year-old pastor's wife with strong traditional values, Lo co-owns the Industrial Training Centre in Pinetown, where she helps run an artisan training school. She and her family also lead Discovery Church.
Fafa is a 30-year-old wife, mother of four, entrepreneur and social media influencer.
Kwanele and Lo share about their journey joining the show, the drama that's unfolded on-screen, and the overwhelming reactions from audiences to their personal stories.
What inspired you to join The Real Housewives of Durban?
Lo: My reason for joining the cast of RHOD was to have a life-changing experience, but also to offer the audience an authentic glimpse into the life of a pastor's wife. I wanted to inspire young women in Christianity, showing them that life is still enjoyable and full of joy, even with Christ. I aimed to demonstrate that life can be lived to the fullest, regardless of my position in the church. My main goal is to remain true to myself, proving that you can be focused, determined, and still enjoy life's blessings.
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Fafa: I've always been a naturally shy person and public speaking has never come easy to me. But deep down, I felt it was time to challenge myself, step out of my comfort zone, and push past my fears. I wanted to see if I could be more than just the quiet, reserved version of myself, and whether I could find my voice and share it with the world.
It's been a journey, and honestly, it's not always easy. There are still moments when I feel nervous or unsure but I'm learning to navigate those feelings. I'm proud of myself for taking the leap and joining the show, and I'm excited to see where this path leads me.
What lessons have you learned about yourself through your journey on the show?
Fafa: One of the most important lessons I've learned is the power of staying true to who I am. It's so easy to get caught up in the drama of reality TV but I've learned to take a step back, breathe, and focus on what really matters to me.
I've also grown in confidence. As a Housewife, I've been stereotyped and judged in ways I wasn't expecting but I've learned to rise above it all and just focus on being the best version of myself. Ultimately, this experience has taught me the value of being self assured and authentic.
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Lo: I've learned so much about myself. I've discovered the strength and resilience I carry, the patience I've developed, and the determination to make a success of anything I start.
Fafa, what motivated you to open up about the challenges you and your husband have faced?
I think on social media, people only see a small part of your life, about 40% of it, maybe. Social media shows the rose petals, cute cards, and perfectly posed pictures but it doesn't show the tough moments, the arguments, the tears, the therapy sessions.
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For me, it was really important to be open and honest. As a couple, we've faced challenges like anyone else. It's easy to put on a perfect façade for the world to see but I wanted to show the real us.
Life is about authenticity, and I believe that's what makes it so relatable. We're not perfect, but we're navigating it all together. My hope is that by sharing our story, we can encourage others to be honest about their own struggles and know they're not alone.
Lo, what do you hope viewers take away from your journey on the show?
I bring an amazing, fun-filled, and calm aura to the show. I offer a lot of life lessons and provide a glimpse into the life of a hardworking pastor's wife - someone who is not only God-fearing but also a loving mom and a professional woman.
