Natasha, Fatima reaping BBA fruits
With Africa’s biggest reality show kicking off in September and Malawi auditions scheduled for June 29, former housemates have spoken of life after Big Brother.
Since the reality series hit the silver screen, Malawi has been represented by Zein Dudha, Code Sangala twice, Hazel Warren, Mzamose Chibambo, Tendai ‘DJ Lomwe’ Namate, Felicia Susan Ng’oma, Watipaso and Alinafe Kulemeka and, most recently, Natasha Tonthola and Fatima Nkata.
Big Brother (The Chase) Malawi representatives say they are reaping the fruits of being on that shows despite missing on the $300 000 prize money.
“The question of whether Malawian housemates have benefited from the show is subjective. It all depends on how individual representatives carried themselves while in the house and how they choose to capitalise on the opportunities that come from having been on the show.
“For me, being on BBA opened up doors that have enabled me to pursue my passions. I am forging a career as a marketer in the motor industry. My interest in politics is being nurtured and on the creative industries scene. My events MC profile has risen and I have become an avid blogger with followership in Malawi and beyond,” explained Nkata in an interview.
She said she uses her personal Facebook page, Fatima Wakumalawi Uja, which is linked to her other social media accounts, as a platform for commentating and voicing opinions on various topical issues.
Her chasemate, Tonthola says her journey on the reality show has graduated into being an activist for change.
“Yes, we have benefited from the show as its fame, gave me a name and platform. For Malawi and us as participants to benefit it all depends on oneself how we utilise the platform. For example, I can stand proud today and say that my status and name is very known than some of Malawian politicians and across the continent. If you ask other nationalities for instance to mention any minister in Malawi, they will not know but if you ask them about Natasha almost anyone, anywhere in Africa and beyond will tell you they know me.
“So, I have registered a foundation which I am using it as the voice of the voiceless in championing against school dropouts, early marriages, the impact of HIV/Aids, safe motherhood, domestic violence among the many others,” she said.
