Meet Ilano Sky, Big Brother Mzansi’s Proudly Transgender Housemate

Ilano Sky, one of the housemates in the sixth season of Big Brother Mzansi, is breaking new ground as a transgender woman determined to bring queer fierceness to South African television screens.

Ilano, whose full name is Langelihle Gumede, is a 23-year-old make-up artist and hairstylist from Durban in KwaZulu-Natal who is an out and proud member of the LGBTIQ+ community.

Ready for the Big Brother House

Speaking to Big Brother, Ilano said her experience working in customer service would serve her well in the house.

“Dealing and connecting with people is something I am always exposed to. For me, it’s my power to respect others and the resilience I have for people; this is how I will win hearts over,” she said.

She added: “My love language is gifts… I love receiving gifts, being complimented on how I look and being treated well.”

A Social Media Powerhouse

The vibrant reality TV contestant brings a substantial social media following with her into the house. Ilano boasts more than 238,000 followers on Facebook, nearly 80,000 on Instagram, and an impressive 500,000 fans on TikTok.

She describes herself as confident, a good listener and fun-loving. Asked what she would bring to the Big Brother house, she said: “I bring vibe, I bring personality, I bring energy, and of course, also, glam!”

Support From a Close Friend and Advocate

Activist, artist and media personality Yaya Mavundla, one of South Africa’s most high-profile transgender individuals, counts Ilano as a close friend.

“She’s my bestie, like a sister,” Mavundla told MambaOnline.

“Ilano is a kind and bubbly individual, never shy to put herself out there. Those who follow her on social media know her courage and her witty content that she uses to confront transphobia, using her personality to suppress hateful comments about her gender identity,” she said.

“I’ve always admired her bravery, especially because she’s only 23, and I knew a platform like Big Brother would be perfect for her.”

A Powerful Moment for Representation

Mavundla believes Ilano’s inclusion on the popular show marks a powerful moment for LGBTIQ+ visibility and representation. She urged the queer community to rally behind her.

“It is important for us to not only support her for advocacy, but also simply because it’s cool to support one another. The more LGBTIQ+ individuals in the mainstream media, the better!”

What to Expect From Big Brother Mzansi Season 6

Smash Afrika returns as host of Big Brother Mzansi season six, themed Bazozwa (“they will know me”). This season introduces a new group of 23 housemates and also will allow viewers to vote for four former contestants who hope to return to the house.

Watch Big Brother Mzansi season 6: Bazozwa 24/7 on DStv channel 198. Viewers can also catch the live shows on Sundays at 18:00 on Mzansi Magic and Mzansi Wethu, or stream the show on DStv Stream.