Liema Pantsi Wins Big Brother Mzansi: Plans for Prize Money & Redemption Story

Singer Liyema Pantsi was crowned the winner of ‘Huge Brother Mzansi Bazozwa’ season 6 on Sunday, securing a R2 million grand prize and an additional R3,000 in cash prizes accumulated through weekly challenges, according to TimesLIVE.

Pantsi, who also goes by Liema, received 33.84% of the total votes cast, narrowly defeating Thandeka Tshabalala, who secured 29.97% in a closely contested finale. The win marks a significant turning point for Pantsi, who previously participated in season four of the reality indicate.

In a surprising move during her initial stint in 2024, Pantsi opted to seize a R250,000 payout and exit the competition rather than continue vying for the grand prize. Reflecting on that decision, Pantsi told Sowetan she returned to ‘Big Brother Mzansi’ seeking redemption and a chance to complete her story. “I didn’t have nice memories in my previous season. I didn’t even make real connections. So, I wanted to move back for redemption; to play differently, enjoy myself and make genuine connections. I wanted to finish the race strongly. People were talking about the possibility of me winning, so I wanted to prove it could happen. Also, after leaving season four with R250,000, I wanted to complete my story and show I could go all the way.”

Despite initial doubts about her chances, Pantsi expressed shock at her victory. “No. It was a recent season with new people and I’ve also grown up from the person I was two years ago. I was hopeful but quite doubtful given that there were so many strong personalities. I wasn’t sure if people liked me, so winning this came as a shock.”

The season was marked by a notable rivalry between Pantsi and Tshabalala. Pantsi described her approach to the conflict, stating she refused to “shrink for anyone” and would defend herself and her allies. “I told myself I wouldn’t shrink for anyone or make her feel comfortable. She was already confident and had support, so I decided that if she came for me or my people, I’d stand my ground. Emotionally, it was draining, but I reminded myself to focus on my own game and not let the tension distract me. It made me stronger and more intentional with my moves in the house.”

As of Monday, the two contestants appeared to be on amicable terms, though Pantsi indicated they had not yet discussed their past disagreements. “At the moment, we’re fine. We haven’t talked about past issues yet, but we’re moving forward. We shall observe about friendship later; I don’t know. But for now, we’re just okay, just being girls.”

Pantsi described the psychological challenges of spending ten weeks in the house, noting the difficulty of finding personal space and the importance of maintaining mental fortitude. “It was overwhelming. Sometimes I needed a moment, so I’d sit quietly in the dining room or lock myself in the diary room or the toilet. Especially in the beginning, you couldn’t have time to yourself. I learnt that I’m strong-minded. Otherwise, I could have gone crazy.” She also revealed she learned to swim during her time in the house.

Looking ahead, Pantsi plans to use her winnings to support her foundation for young women, renovate her grandmother’s home, and pursue travel opportunities. She also expressed ambitions to develop into a UN ambassador, release new music, and explore acting. “I’m coming for everything. My priority right now is my foundation. I also want to be a UN ambassador, travel the world, help people and make a positive impact. I hope to work with more brands, release new music and explore acting.”

Pantsi also expressed gratitude to her supporters, particularly those from the Eastern Cape. “I’m so proud to come from the Eastern Cape. I’m happy they supported me all the way. I never imagined this happening in my life. I’m so shocked, but grateful.”

The ‘Big Brother Mzansi Bazozwa’ season 6 garnered significant viewership, exceeding the performance of season 5 across key digital metrics, including votes, engagement, and video views, with over 5.5 million YouTube views, according to a statement shared with ThisaLIVE. Multichoice director of local entertainment channels Shirley Adonisi congratulated Pantsi on her win, stating she had officially joined the ‘Big Brother Mzansi winners ‘Hall of Fame’”.