Welcome to “Independent Media Lifestyle’s” feature, “Hang 10”.
Each week, we feature an extraordinary Mzansi personality who is excelling in their line of work.
We recently got to know more about “The Real Housewives of Durban” cast member Lo Sithole, 40.
Sithole is a pastor’s wife with strong traditional values.
She co-owns and runs an artisan training school, the Industrial Training Centre in Pinetown, while her husband operates a plant hire business.
Together, they also lead Discovery Church, balancing faith, family and entrepreneurship.
Also a devoted mother of two, Sithole firmly believes that being a Christian doesn’t mean putting life on hold.
Sharing why she joined “The Real Housewives of Durban”, she says: “I wanted to have a life-changing experience and give the audience a real glimpse into the life of a pastor’s wife. My goal is to inspire young women in Christianity by showing them that faith and enjoyment can go hand in hand.
“Life doesn’t stop because of my role in the church. I want people to see that you can be focused, determined, and still live life to the fullest.”
How long have you been in the arts/entertainment industry, and what was the motivation behind it?
This is my first interaction with being in the industry, and I am hoping for the very best.
Which of your projects are you most proud of and why?
That would be my artisan school project, as it has driven me to be the person I am today.
It has created the resilience that I have, and the mere fact that I have an impact on the change in the community makes it my biggest achievement thus far.
I have always wanted to bring change to the community, and seeing the kids in my community achieving their goals because of me makes me proud.
What are the biggest creative risks you’ve taken, and did they work out for you?
The biggest creative risk would be taking a leap of faith and opening another artisan school.
What inspires you to wake up every day and continue in your field of work?
My family – my husband and kids – are my daily motivation, along with the kids whose lives I am changing.
Seeing them reach their goals is my daily motivation.
What is one misconception people often have about you?
The fact that people think I am faking my generosity and friendliness.
What is your favourite part about living in Durban, and what would you say to people about visiting?
The weather in Durban, the diverse cultures, the stunning vacation spots, the beautiful beaches, and lastly, the amazing food.
People who visit will most definitely experience the love and beautiful souls we have here in Durban, as well as the phenomenal places to see, including our African cuisine.
Aside from home, what are your favourite holiday destinations and why?
Paris, Greece, London, and Monaco.
Who is your favourite local designer and why?
I have two, and they would be Wandile Cwele Design and Ntsike_ensembled; their work is exceptionally amazing, and there is no other like them.
They work with so much passion, and their pieces are of top quality.
What are some of the projects that you are/will be working on in 2025?
There is something coming up but unfortunately, I would not be able to disclose it just yet. Keep an eye out for it.
Some words of encouragement for those wanting to get into the arts/entertainment industry:
Prayer, perseverance, and patience. Speak to God about it first and wait for Him to guide you through it.
Nothing beats God’s timing. Be intentional and content about your purpose and the goals you want to achieve.
What’s your preferred drink of choice when you wake up in the morning, and why?
Green tea and/or warm water with lemon; it is mostly for my health purposes.
As I am embarking on my weight loss journey, I love to start off with something to detox my tummy before starting my day.
Most bizarre thing you’ve ever done?
Bungee jumping.
What motto/mantra do you live by?
Believe and speak things into existence.
What’s a typical weekend like for you?
A typical weekend would be waking up, drinking my cup of warm water, hitting the road for a small jog, returning home, taking a shower and spending the day with my kids – either going to the park, swimming or visiting the farmers’ market.
I end my day by cooking a homely meal and enjoying it with my family.
