MPILO Mseleku says viewers are about to meet the real her.
The reality TV star has revealed that the fourth season of Izingane zeS’thembu will show her most honest and vulnerable side as she opens up about healing, emotional growth and finding her voice.
The new season premieres on Mzansi Magic on Wednesday, 20 August.
Izingane zeS’thembu stars are popular polygamist, Musa Mseleku’s children, Mpumelelo, Sne, Abongwe and Mpilo.
The new season also features their younger siblings, Mnini, Owami, Mawande and Thando.
Mpilo (22) said she returned as she still had a story to tell.
“I said yes because I felt I still had a story to tell. Every season reflects a different chapter of my life and this one captures a version of me that viewers haven’t really seen before.
“I wanted to be honest about where I am emotionally and let people see my growth beyond what they may have assumed about me,” she said.
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The reality TV star said she’s grown tremendously since viewers first met her.
“I’ve grown a lot emotionally. I’ve become more comfortable with expressing how I feel instead of keeping everything bottled up.
“Within my family, I’ve also learned that my voice matters and it’s okay to stand firm in what I feel while still loving and respecting the people around me,” Mpilo said.
She admitted filming the new season wasn’t easy as she chose to stop hiding behind a brave face.
“This season was much more emotional because I allowed myself to be vulnerable. In the past, I think people mostly saw the surface, but this time they get to see the pain I’d been carrying and how I navigate it.
“It felt more real because I wasn’t hiding behind a brave face. Viewers will see me navigating difficult emotions, learning more about myself, leaning on the people I love and finding strength through it all,” Mpilo said.
Being part of one of Mzansi’s most famous families has also meant dealing with public criticism, but Mpilo said she’s learnt not to let people’s opinions define her.
The hardest part is knowing that people only see small pieces of your life, but they often form complete opinions about who you are.
She added: “I’ve learned that not every opinion deserves my attention. People will always have something to say, whether it’s positive or negative. As long as I know my truth and the people close to me know who I am, I try not to let outside opinions define me.”
Mpilo believes this will be the most authentic season yet.
“I’m entering this season with a mindset of growth and healing. I’m choosing honesty over everything and I’m giving myself permission to be seen. I think that’s one of the bravest things anyone can do.
“People should watch because this season is the realest. It’s not just about the drama, it’s about growth, family, friendships, resilience and seeing different sides of the people you’ve come to know over the years. I think viewers will laugh with us, cry with us and hopefully take something meaningful from the journey,” she said.
