
Xoliswa Shwayimba: From domestic worker to Shebeen Queen
Xoliswa Shwayimba is the heart and soul behind Rams Inn, a thriving shebeen in Soweto, and one of the standout stars of the Showmax Original reality show Shebeen Queens. Aside from her success in the business world, Xoliswa’s personal life has tongues wagging, especially her love quadrangle with long-term partner Mtshali, who still hasn’t divorced his previous two wives.
Watch the trailer for Shebeen Queens
Sanelisiwe Mhlati sat down with Xoliswa to dive into her life as a shebeen queen and her relationship with Mtshali.
How did you feel about being cast in the show?
I was surprised at first but my fiancé encouraged me, so I went for it.
Was this your first time meeting the other ladies on the show?
No, we knew of each other before the show, but being on Shebeen Queens brought us closer.
How long has Rams Inn been in operation?
Rams Inn has been around for many years. My father originally ran the business but he closed it at some point. When I moved back home and needed a job, we decided to reopen the inn, and I’ve been running it ever since.
What were you doing before taking over the shebeen?
Before I took over the business, I worked as a domestic worker and later at a company that produces snuff tobacco.
How has Rams Inn survived despite competition?
The competition is tight but people come to Rams Inn because they feel free here. We don’t force anyone to stay; they come because they want to.
What challenges have you faced as a shebeen queen?
The biggest challenge is dealing with disrespectful older men who undermine me but I just keep quiet and run my business.
Any advice for aspiring shebeen queens?
Make sure all your licence paperwork is in order first - that’s crucial.
How do you balance your family life and running a business?
Honestly, there’s no balance. The business keeps us so busy.
How many children do you have?
Between Mtshali and I, we have five children, though we don’t have any together.
Was it through the shebeen that you could afford to send your children to school?
Yes, the business allowed me to send them to school, although they didn’t complete matric.
How far did you go at school?
I went as far as grade 12 but I too never completed it because I fell pregnant. So actually I would say grade 11.
Do you see your children taking over the business?
No, my kids won’t be involved. Since I run the business with my fiancé, he’ll have the final say about who takes over.
Do you have any siblings?
Yes, I have four siblings, and by the grace of God, they’re all still alive.
How did your loved ones react to seeing you on-screen?
They were excited for me but you can never truly know how people feel deep down.
How did you adjust to having the cameras around?
It felt strange at first but I quickly got used to it.
Were you able to remain authentic on camera?
Absolutely. I was myself the entire time. When people watch the show, I want people to see the real me.
What was the most difficult part of filming?
Answering personal questions, especially about my relationship and the other wives.
How long have you and Mtshali been together?
It’s been over 10 years now - so long I’ve stopped counting!
Do you have a wedding date set?
Not yet. He still needs to finish paying the bride price. Once that’s done, we’ll set a date.
What’s your relationship like with his other wives?
We don’t have a relationship. We know of each other, but that’s it.
Why hasn’t Mtshali signed the divorce papers for his previous marriages?
I honestly don’t know why he hasn’t signed them yet.
Has Mtshali talked to you about a polygamous marriage?
Yes, when he was with his second wife, he asked if I’d be okay with it. I agreed, but I think the second wife wasn’t on board, so it didn’t happen.
If he doesn’t finish paying the bride price, will you walk away?
No, I’m not going anywhere. I’m here to stay; he just needs to do the right thing and marry me.
Are you a glitz-and-glam kind of person?
Absolutely! Every chance I get, I’m buying something new. My fiancé even supports my shopping habits because he knows how much I love clothes.
Did you bring drama to the show or avoid it?
Oh, I definitely brought some drama! I’m playful and love stirring things up a bit.
Join the conversation: #ShebeenQueens
More like this

Ten Pound Poms S2
In post-war Britain, a group of families resettle in Australia, promised a life of plenty - but find it more challenging than they ever expected.

Kate and Annie take charge in Ten Pound Poms Season 2
Michelle Keegan (Kate) and Faye Marsay (Annie) take us back to Australia in 1957 as Annie starts a bikini revolution, and Kate lets her hair down.

The Peacemaker S1-2
John Cena reprises his role in the spin-off of DC's Suicide Squad, where Peacemaker and his ragtag black ops squad target dangerous parasites.

Tshepo Miya talks about being on Married at First Sight
Tshepo opens up about his journey on Married at First Sight, Palesa and more. Catch new episodes every Sunday on Mzansi Magic and Showmax.

Vaal Riviera S1
Follow four prominent families in the Vaal Triangle as they showcase their wealth, confront personal challenges, and host extravagant parties.

Charl on the Vaal Riviera, joining a reality show, motorsports and more
Afrikaans reality show Vaal Riviera lands on Showmax Friday, 22 August as it premieres at the Silwerskerm Festival. New episodes land Tuesdays.

The Valley S2
Their lives might have slowed down, but the drama hasn't. Vanderpump Rules's former West Hollywood partygoers embrace the next chapter of their lives in the Valley.

Law & Order S23-24
The original Law & Order resumes its classic two-part approach following both the police who investigate crimes and the DAs who prosecute them.
SA celebs open up about divorce on Untied
Youngins S3, coming soon to Showmax
More binge-worthy series to stream

Ten Pound Poms S2
In post-war Britain, a group of families resettle in Australia, promised a life of plenty - but find it more challenging than they ever expected.

Kate and Annie take charge in Ten Pound Poms Season 2
Michelle Keegan (Kate) and Faye Marsay (Annie) take us back to Australia in 1957 as Annie starts a bikini revolution, and Kate lets her hair down.

Tracking Thabo Bester
A documentary about the convicted murderer and rapist who did not die in Cell 35 but was instead seen shopping in Sandton City. Two episodes 15 March, final episodes 22 March on Showmax.

White Bird (2023)
In the sequel to Wonder (2017), former bully Julian is struggling at his new school, until a visit from his grandmother offers perspective.
Latest Stories

Kate and Annie take charge in Ten Pound Poms Season 2

Vilakazi's verdict: Sundowns to "edge it" in high-stakes MTN8 semi-final

Rivalries reignite in thrilling Premier League games on Showmax

5 patients you’ll meet in The Pitt Season 1

Palesa Mphaki on being Married at First Sight, her husband and more

5 new reality shows on Showmax in August

The Big 6ix on new Premier League season and their SA adventure

Will anyone stop the champs? Booth on Downs' quest for a 9th title

The curtain rises: Wembley Showdown - LFC vs Crystal Palace

Showmax Premier League weekly watchlist: 19-25 August 2025

Showmax PL kicks off football fiesta with MTN8 quarter-finals

Melissa Kape Saili tips Morocco to win WAFCON final

Must-watch trailer: upcoming Showmax reality show Vaal Riviera

Showmax PL kicks off new football season with unmatched action

Shaka iLembe's Dawn Thandeka King on Untied

Giants: Buccaneers' untold story streams live on Showmax PL

Ugochi Oparanozie backs Nigeria to overcome Banyana Banyana

Director Jasyn Howes on true-crime documentary The ABC Killer

Get Ready for the PL Summer Series – live on Showmax

Nthabeleng Modiko backs reigning champions for WAFCON glory

Felix Hlophe on his comedy special, fat jokes, sex and cheating

Everyone Else Burns and 8 more cult classics

Binge five of the 10 biggest Emmy nominees on Showmax

Dangerous minds in The Institute + 7 more superpowered series