Zanele Potelwa on the Twists, Triumphs and Emotion of Hosting ‘Tropika Island of Treasure’ Season 12
- Zanele Potelwa returned as host of Tropika Island of Treasure Season 12, filmed on Réunion Island
- The host revealed what surprised her most about this season's cast and their bonds with each other
- Zanele also teased more unexpected twists ahead and shared her exciting plans for the rest of 2026
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Tropika Island of Treasure is back, and if the first few episodes are anything to go by, Season 12 is shaping up to be the most emotionally charged instalment yet. Returning host Zanele Potelwa sat down to reflect on what it's been like stepping back into the role, and she didn't hold back.
"It's been absolutely magical. It's a dream come true, and it truly excites me more with every episode," Zanele said, crediting not only the cast but also the crew, makeup and wardrobe teams for pulling together to deliver what she describes as the most memorable season yet.
What's surprised Zanele Potelwa most this season
For a show built on competition and strategy, it's the human element that has struck Zanele most deeply this season. She says watching contestants pour their hearts into the game, through tears, tenacity and genuine care for their teammates, has been something special to witness.
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"You can see everyone giving their everything and the amount of love they have for each other is beautiful to witness," she said. "As teams, they all have their eye on the prize, but they also all truly adore their teammates."
When it comes to the Sunset Ceremony, where a contestant's fate can shift in an instant, Zanele says she finds herself feeling deeply empathetic. She understands the nerve-racking nature of competition firsthand, particularly when mystery boxes and unexpected twists are thrown into the mix.
On the subject of alliances, she's clear-eyed about what actually works.
"You've got to pick strategy over friendship and play the game with the intention of winning," she explained. "To choose the correct alliance, you have to ask, 'Who can help us get to the finale?' because after that, it's every team for themselves."
Réunion Island, podcasts and what's next for Zanele
Shot against the dramatic backdrop of Réunion Island, the season gives viewers a stunning visual experience alongside the drama. Zanele admits she had to constantly remind herself she was there to work, not holiday, especially near the beach and the island's iconic volcano.
"French pastries in a French territory? Yes, please!" she laughed.
As for what lies ahead in the competition, she's keeping her cards close to her chest. She teased that more surprises are coming, adding,
"It's so worth it."
Away from the show, Zanele has plenty keeping her busy. She's continuing to develop her clothing line, hosting more events and gearing up for a podcast project with her best friend, Candice Sello. She also mentioned an upcoming 5FM project called 5 Drive Gets High as part of what she described as finishing the year "with a quantum leap."
Catch Tropika Island of Treasure every Wednesday at 21:00 on SABC 1, with a repeat every Thursday at 18:00 on S3.
Source: Original
Amanda du-Pont reveals how she prepared for Season 12
Meanwhile, Briefly News reported that Amanda du-Pont shared how she prepared for Tropika Island of Treasure Season 12.
Amanda opened up about the personal challenge she expected to face on the island, and the type of teammate she is hoping to be paired with.
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Source: Briefly News
