Exclusive interview with Beekay: from Qwaqwa to Big Brother Mzans

By Emily Setona

QWAQWA – In the quiet mountain valley of Qwaqwa, where resilience and ambition often go unnoticed, a young man named Bokang “Beekay” Chephetsa is rewriting the narrative. At just 24 years old, Beekay has captured the hearts of South Africans as a standout contestant on Big Brother Mzansi Season 5, themed Umlilo. But behind the cameras, the challenges, and the fame, is a deeply reflective soul driven by purpose, community, and the desire to be a force for good.

A Dream ignited

Beekay’s journey began humbly. Born and raised in Qwaqwa, he grew up in a close-knit family that valued thoughtfulness, introspection, and integrity. “I believe life is about creating unforgettable memories,” Beekay shares in our interview. “I joined Big Brother because I wanted to spark hope for those who feel forgotten, to show that someone from a small town can enter big spaces and still be grounded.”

His mother, Mpho Chephetsa, offers rare insight into the heart behind the public persona:

“Beekay is my quiet storm, an introvert with a big heart and even bigger dreams. He’s always been an observer, the deep thinker, that’s why it surprised us when he chose to enter Big Brother, but it made sense. Now he’s availing himself as an influencer for positivity, ready to reach the unheard and unseen, and to inspire others to dream boldly. He’s lived one of his wildest dreams and from here, he’ll only dream wilder. Mommy’s Boxi, as I call him.”

Inside the Big Brother House

Beekay’s reflective and calm nature was both his strength and his challenge inside the house. “I struggled to adjust at first,” he admits. “Being watched 24/7 and living with so many personalities wasn’t easy, but I embraced it. It tested my character and taught me things I didn’t know I needed to learn.”

Viewers saw a man who chose patience over provocation, kindness over chaos. In an environment designed for drama, Beekay stood out for his quiet leadership and emotional intelligence.

Lessons learned

“The experience has shaped me into a very disciplined and patient individual,” he reflects. “I learned how to trust my instincts, to listen more, and to believe even more in what I bring to the table.”

What makes Beekay even more relatable is his honesty about growth—not perfection. “I’m still evolving. I still overthink. I’m still trying to find the balance between being heard and staying true to myself. But I’m proud of how far I’ve come.”

Beyond the show

Beekay’s vision extends far beyond the glitz of reality TV. A digital marketer by profession, he’s now pouring his energy into empowering young men through mentorship and entrepreneurship. “I have a burning desire to create employment and teach young men the principles of self-respect, discipline, and etiquette. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being better.”

His lived experience gives weight to his words. Raised in a region often overlooked by national policy and infrastructure, Beekay understands the urgency of creating change from the ground up.

A hero’s welcome

When Beekay returned home to Qwaqwa, he wasn’t just met with cheers—he was met with tears, pride, and purpose. “Seeing the community show up for me the way they did was humbling,” he says. “It reminded me who I’m doing this for. It’s not just about fame; it’s about legacy.”

Looking ahead

Beekay has no intention of slowing down. He’s currently working on community development projects and collaborating with like-minded creatives to build platforms that uplift, not just entertain. “I want to be known not just as the guy from Big Brother, but as someone who used every opportunity to serve, to teach, to build.”

As his mother so poignantly put it, Beekay is indeed a quiet storm—one that’s steadily rising, and in doing so, lifting others with him.