Big Brother Mzansi Season 6 runner-up Thandeka Tshabalala may not have taken home the winner’s title, but her loyal supporters have given her another reason to celebrate after raising more than R1 million for her through a GoFundMe campaign.
Also see: ‘I am the Bazozwa Queen’ – Thandeka reflects on Big Brother Mzansi experience
The milestone is being celebrated as a historic first for the reality show, with Thandeka’s fans, affectionately known as the Thalians, rallying behind her long after her Big Brother journey ended.
Fans raise R1 million
Thandeka’s strong personality and memorable moments inside the Big Brother house earned her a dedicated following, with fans continuing to support her outside the show.
The Thalians launched a GoFundMe campaign to show their appreciation for the reality star, eventually raising more than R1 million.
The achievement has transformed what could have been a disappointing runner-up finish into a major win for Thandeka and her supporters.
Thandeka Tshabalala received a million rand yesterday donated to her by her fans . this has never happened in the History of Big Brother ! 🤍 https://t.co/L3Y8DtnX6y
— Danilo (@odedanilo) October 5, 2026
‘Thalians’ celebrate their favourite
The fan support has extended beyond fundraising.
The Thalians have hosted lively events celebrating Thandeka, complete with oversized cheques, banners featuring some of her memorable quotes and personal gifts.
Among the gifts presented to the reality star was a huge pink teddy bear, adding to the celebratory atmosphere surrounding the milestone.
The events have also provided an opportunity for fans to celebrate the personality they connected with during her time in the Big Brother house.
Also see: Internet reacts to Thandeka’s interview on ‘Podcast & Chill’
Thandeka Tshabalala’s Big Brother impact
Thandeka’s bold personality quickly made her one of the season’s memorable housemates.
Although she ultimately finished as the runner-up, her popularity continued to grow after the show.
Her supporters have taken to social media to celebrate her achievements, while her growing profile has also resulted in brand tie-ins and other opportunities.
The fan community has become an important part of Thandeka’s post-Big Brother journey, with supporters continuing to amplify her work and celebrate her milestones.
Even Mmeli gets in on the love
The Thalians’ support has also extended to Thandeka’s partner, Mmeli, who has featured in some of the fan content surrounding the reality star.
From online celebrations to creative fan projects, the community has embraced the people and moments that have become part of Thandeka’s journey.
The enthusiasm surrounding the campaign demonstrates the level of connection Thandeka established with viewers during her time on Big Brother Mzansi.
A different kind of victory
While the official prize went to the season’s winner, Thandeka’s supporters have made it clear that finishing second did not diminish the impact she had on them.
Raising more than R1 million through a fan-led campaign is a significant milestone and has given the reality star another achievement to celebrate.
For Thandeka, what began as a reality television journey has now grown into a passionate fan community that continues to show up for her.
Also see: McJunior spotted at Thandeka’s homecoming — ‘Big Brother Mzansi’ stars reunite in viral moment
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About the writer
Zintle Mdaka
Zintle Mdaka is a junior content producer, with four years of experience in the newsroom. Zintle has gained valuable experience in newsgathering, writing, research, and digital content production. To contact Zintle, email zintle.mdaka@habarimedia.com