Upon entering the Big Brother Mzansi house, Ilano, a contestant on the show, already carried a history with her.
Image: Instagram/@ilano_sky
Week seven saw Ilano’s journey on “Big Brother Mzansi” come to an end, just before the Top 10 was confirmed. However, for her, the experience was never just about making it to the finale.
The 22-year-old creative did not just exist in the house; she made her presence felt.
Ilano brought energy, personality and unforgettable moments that kept viewers talking.
She served looks consistently, with her hair and make-up always on point, and she became one of the housemates known for cooking some of the most mouth-watering dishes. Whether she was in full glam mode or in the kitchen, she understood how to take up space.
She spoke to “Independent Media Lifestyle” about how walking into the house as the first openly trans woman in the show’s history was something she had already prepared for before stepping through those doors.
When asked what that meant to her and if it came with any pressure, she shared that she had her head set
“I was prepared mentally, physically and emotionally. I walked into that house knowing my purpose, my vision, and I knew who I am. And when it came to the house, I just wanted to offer South Africa the pure energy that I carry.
Unlike many housemates who enter with a clear strategy, Ilano says she did not have one. In fact, she had never really watched the show before going in. While others spoke about gameplay and screen time, she focused on simply being herself.
“I don’t know what strategy is in that house. I just gave them Ilano. If I were given another chance, I’d still go in the same way. I’m me,” she said.
The “Big Brother Mzansi” house can be quite overwhelming in the beginning, when asked how she adjusted to life inside, navigating the cameras, personalities and politics. She shared that it was the cameras that threw her off at first.
“The second day, the camera was directed to my face, and I was like, girl, no,” she laughed. “But you take time to familiarise yourself with the space. Eventually, you even forget about them.”
If you watch the beloved reality competition, you know that Illano was the plug for everything in the house. From cooking to helping the girls with their hair and make-up, and cleaning, she naturally stepped into a nurturing role.
One might think she did all of that so it works in her favour, but she insisted it was never about gaining favour. That’s just who she is.
“I’m a helper. I live by my name. I make someone’s day,” she said. Even when she felt overlooked at times, she did not change who she was. “I’m genuine. I can’t fake that.”
Now back in the real world, Ilano says her focus is clear. Acting and presenting are high on her list, along with continuing her work in hair and make-up, though she plans to move with more intention.
“I’m very young. I’m building this empire. It takes a lot to be 22 years old doing all of this. I’m not going to lie, sometimes it gets so overwhelming, but thank you to God and everyone who has been supporting my journey.
“I’m putting in the work, but I’m going to try to stick to more professional things, so I know that I’m safe. Plus I’m trans, you know. There’s just a lot of things that I’m more cautious about now. It’s more about protecting yourself,” she said.
With Ilano as the latest evictee, the housemates have officially reached the top 10 stage of the reality competition, which consists of Thandeka, Liema, Bravo B, Que, Mmeli, Ashay, Trixie, Didi, King Wanda and The Don.