Nonku opens up about Untied, now streaming on Showmax

Showmax just dropped the first episode of Untied, a bold new talk show that dives into the often messy, always emotional world of divorce, told through the eyes of famous South African women who’ve been through it all.

Hosted by award-winning media personality Relebogile Mabotja, Untied kicks off with none other than Nonku Williams, businesswoman, single mother and reality TV royalty. South Africans first got to know Nonku on The Real Housewives of Durban, the record-breaking Showmax Original that’s now officially the longest-running Housewives franchise on the continent, with five seasons under its belt.

Watch the trailer for Untied

But this time, it’s not all glitz and glam. In her sit-down with Relebogile, Nonku opens up like never before, sharing the heartbreak, the healing, and what she’s learnt about love and letting go.

When we caught up with Nonku, she didn’t hold back. She spilled the tea on why she agreed to do the show, what viewers can expect, and how it feels to be that vulnerable in front of the whole country.

Why did you feel it was the right time to share your story on Untied?

I believe everything happens for a reason, and every experience we go through has a purpose – not just for us, but for others who may find healing and hope in our stories. I felt it was time to share my story on Untied because I trust that God has a plan, and this moment is part of it. My hope is that my message will resonate with and bring healing to another woman who needs to hear it.

You've been on reality TV for years, and the public has seen many sides of you. What are you revealing on Untied that you haven’t shared before?

While I've been on reality TV for years, the real me hasn't been fully captured on those shows. My purpose is bigger than that. I want to share my truth, authenticity, and experiences to inspire, uplift and give hope to others who've gone through similar struggles. Untied was the perfect platform for me to share my unfiltered story, and I hope it will inspire others.

How challenging was it to open up about such a deeply personal chapter of your life?

Opening up about such a deeply personal chapter of my life wasn't easy, but I believe it comes with maturity and understanding that our experiences are meant to help others. I trust that God uses our stories to touch lives and solve problems. Surrendering to His will gave me the purpose and fulfilment I needed to share my story, despite the challenges.

What do you hope viewers take away from your story?

As I share my story on Untied, I hope viewers will take away the message that no matter what they're facing, it's not the end. It's just a season, and with faith and perseverance, they can overcome it. My ministry is for those in their darkest moments, and I pray that my story will give them hope and reassurance that they can emerge victorious, just like I did.

What sets Untied apart from reality shows, and why do you think people should watch it?

What sets Untied apart from reality shows is the unfiltered truth. Women are sharing their vulnerabilities, traumas and challenges without holding back. They're coming on this platform because they believe their stories can make a difference, and that's a sign of victory. I believe Untied will change the trajectory of reality TV, showing that it's not just about drama or glamour, but about the real stories and struggles that people have overcome.

How did revisiting your past, including the abuse you endured, impact your healing process?

Sharing my story of trauma and abuse has been both challenging and healing. While the memories and triggers will always be there, I'm grateful that I can now speak about them in a way that brings restoration. For me, talking about my experiences has been a form of healing, and I hope that my story can help others find healing too.

How has your sense of identity and self-worth shifted since your divorce?

My divorce was a turning point in discovering my true identity and self-worth. I've come to realise that my value and worth aren't determined by my marital status or external validation. Instead, I've found my identity in God, and that's given me a sense of purpose and freedom. I know who I am, and I know that I matter – not because of what others think, but because of who God is.

Did your spiritual journey help guide how you shared your truth on Untied?

My spiritual journey played a significant role in guiding how I shared my truth on Untied. Without the help of the Holy Spirit, I wouldn't have been able to be so vulnerable and authentic. God called me to share my story, and it required me to let go of my own pride and fears. It's not easy being vulnerable, but I knew it was necessary for a bigger purpose, to serve and inspire others. I'm grateful for the grace and guidance that God has provided throughout this journey.

What was it like to be this vulnerable on a public platform? Were you concerned about how people might respond?

Being vulnerable on a public platform wasn't easy, but I'm proud of myself for overcoming my fears and sharing my authentic story. It's not simple to expose the most intimate and traumatic parts of my life, but I've reached a point where I'm not concerned about what others think or say. I know people will always have opinions, and that's their business, not mine. I'm focused on sharing my raw, unfiltered truth, and that's liberating.

New episodes of Untied land on Showmax every Tuesday. Upcoming guests include reality star Beverly Steyn, actresses Dawn Thandeka King, Mona Monyane and Palesa Madisakwane, media personality Zandi Nhlapo, businesswoman Norma Gigaba, and model-turned-activist Sonia Booth.