The Other Side of Amstel Maboa: On Legacy, Growth, and Queer Joy

Few names hold as much significance in South Africa’s queer cultural tapestry as Amstel Maboa. A trailblazer in entertainment, fashion, and advocacy, Amstel’s legacy is etched not just in the spotlight of performance but in the quieter, powerful ways he shows up for the community.

Amstel first rose to public prominence in the early 2000s as a founding member of 3Sum, the first proudly gay Afro-pop group—of which he is the sole surviving member.

Known for unapologetically living his truth and empowering others to do the same, he continues to inspire — now in more personal and delicious ways.

In this intimate conversation with MambaOnline, we catch a glimpse of the man behind the legend: the family-focused foodie, the curious learner, and the nurturer of safe, vibrant queer spaces.

From the bustling kitchen of his township restaurant to moments of self-reflection and growth, Amstel opens up about life beyond the stage — and the ongoing journey of being proudly, audaciously himself.

Your work and presence have paved the way for so many queer artists and performers. But what’s something about Amstel that most people don’t know — and that you wish they did?

I truly value my personal space, but at my core, I’m very family-oriented — that’s where I find peace.

After everything you’ve lived through — the highs, the loss, the legacy — what grounds you now? What brings you joy in your day-to-day life?

Being part of the food industry and running my own restaurant is such a fulfilling experience. Cooking and meeting new people every day brings me a deep sense of joy and calm.

Tell us about the Rainbow Dish and what it means to you.

I started The Rainbow Dish, a queer-centred event hosted at my restaurant, Dijong Tsa Amstel, in Mamelodi township, Pretoria. It takes place on the last Saturday of every month. It’s a collaboration between myself and Martina — also known as Tinaz — and it’s a safe, vibrant space for the queer community. We come together to chill, network, and enjoy mouth-watering food while listening to good music. It’s a celebration of identity and community.

If you could live one totally different life for a day — new career, different place, maybe even a different version of you — what would it be and why?

If I could be anywhere right now, it would be Bali — a place full of tranquillity, which aligns perfectly with what I love. Just soaking it all in, being present. As for my career, I wouldn’t change a thing.

As someone who’s had to constantly explain, advocate, and educate — what’s one moment or misconception you wish people better understood about you or your journey?

As a gay man, I’ve always embraced who I am. I was active in all kinds of sports at school — including rugby and cricket — and was part of the school choir. I was also a star in netball! I never dated girls; they’ve always been my best friends since preschool. I naturally gravitated towards playing more with girls and, as a femme gay man, I felt more comfortable in their clothes than my own. Our journeys as queer people are unique and never the same — and that’s okay.

You’ve spoken powerfully about learning more about trans identities and choosing to educate yourself. Where are you now on that personal growth journey, and how has it shifted how you show up in your community?

Over time, I’ve come to understand that while the trans community and I share parts of our journey, we also have distinct experiences. I’ve learned that the term “drag queen” was once wrongly used to describe trans individuals, which isn’t accurate. Educating myself has been empowering, and I continue to do so as our community grows and evolves.

What message do you have for young queer creatives — especially those afraid they won’t be accepted or “make it” by being their authentic selves?

To anyone navigating their identity: stay true to yourself. We were all created to be unique. There’s a community here — including people like me — who are ready to support and walk with you through the daily challenges.

Amstel Maboa’s story is a reminder that authenticity, community, and creativity are powerful tools for both survival and celebration. Whether serving flavour on stage or on a plate, he’s nurturing spaces where queer people can feel seen, safe, and inspired. And that, perhaps, is his most delicious legacy yet.