In a thrilling blend of music, beauty, and drama, Amapiano sensation Zandile “Zee” Nxumalo has added another feather to her cap with a high-profile acting cameo on eTV’s hit telenovela House of Zwide.
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The 22-year-old Swazi-South African singer-songwriter, already riding high on her musical success and a recent brand partnership with Nivea, made her television debut on August 14, 2025, during the show’s much-anticipated Fashion Week episode. This exciting milestone not only showcases Zee’s versatility but also highlights how her collaboration with Nivea has opened doors to new opportunities in the entertainment industry.
From Amapiano Stardom To The Big Screen
Zee Nxumalo, known for chart-topping hits like “Funk 55” and “Thula Mabota,” has been a force in South Africa’s Amapiano scene since her breakout in 2023. Her soulful vocals, infectious energy, and relatable social media presence have made her a fan favorite.
Earlier this year, Zee announced a partnership with Nivea, a global skincare brand renowned for its commitment to celebrating authentic beauty. The collaboration, which aligns with Nivea’s campaigns promoting confidence and self-expression, has elevated Zee’s public profile, positioning her as a rising star with cross-industry appeal.
This partnership proved to be a game-changer when Nivea’s influence helped secure Zee a guest appearance on House of Zwide, one of South Africa’s most-watched drama series. The show, centered around the glamorous yet cutthroat world of fashion, provided the perfect stage for Zee to shine. Her cameo as a special guest performer during the Collective’s Fashion Week event was a seamless fusion of her musical talent and the show’s high-fashion narrative.
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A Star Turn At Fashion Week
On August 14, 2025, Zee Nxumalo took to the House of Zwide runway, delivering a captivating performance that left both the fictional designers and real-life fans in awe. Her appearance was a highlight of the episode, which centered on the drama-filled Fashion Week storyline.
Zee’s signature energy and style electrified the Collective’s runway showcase, adding a layer of glamour to an already intense episode. Social media buzzed with praise for her performance, with fans applauding her ability to hold her own alongside the show’s seasoned cast.
The cameo was a strategic move, blending Zee’s musical prowess with Nivea’s brand ethos of empowering individuals to shine. Sources close to the production suggest that Nivea’s involvement in Zee’s career played a pivotal role in securing this opportunity, as the brand sought to amplify her presence in mainstream media. While it remains unclear whether this was a one-off appearance or the start of a recurring role, Zee’s debut has sparked speculation about her future in acting.
WATCH: Zee Nxumalo live at Cotton Fest 2024 (Full Performance)
Nivea’s Role In Zee Nxumalo’s Rise
Zee Nxumalo’s partnership with Nivea has been a catalyst for her expanding influence. The skincare brand, known for its inclusive campaigns, saw Zee as a perfect ambassador to connect with younger audiences through her authenticity and vibrant personality.
This collaboration has not only boosted her visibility but also provided a platform to explore new creative avenues, such as acting. Posts on X earlier this year reflected fans’ enthusiasm for Zee as a potential Nivea ambassador, with one user, @joy_zelda, tweeting, “Zee deserves to be the face of @NIVEAUSA #NiveaSA,” urging others to retweet until it opened doors for her. That vision clearly came to fruition, culminating in this high-profile cameo.
The House of Zwide appearance also aligns with Nivea’s broader strategy of integrating its ambassadors into culturally significant platforms. By featuring Zee in a popular telenovela, Nivea not only promoted its brand but also celebrated South African talent, reinforcing its commitment to local entertainment and empowerment.
A Multifaceted Star On The Rise
Zee Nxumalo’s cameo on House of Zwide marks a significant milestone in her career, following other high-profile achievements. In May 2025, she announced a groundbreaking deal with Nickelodeon to work on a song for SpongeBob SquarePants, further proving her ability to transcend genres and industries. Her humorous announcement of the deal, complete with a playful typo (“Nicholodean”), endeared her even more to fans, showcasing her relatable charm.
Despite her rapid rise, Zee remains grounded, often engaging with fans on social media about her journey. Her recent request for R250,000 to fund a music video sparked mixed reactions, but it underscored her determination to keep pushing creative boundaries. Whether through music, acting, or brand partnerships, Zee Nxumalo is proving she’s a multifaceted talent with global potential.
What’s Next For Zee Nxumalo?
Zee Nxumalo’s House of Zwide cameo has left fans eager for more. While the episode was a standalone triumph, the buzz surrounding her performance suggests she could return to the show or explore other acting roles. With Nivea’s backing and her growing fanbase, Zee is well-positioned to continue breaking barriers in both music and television.
For now, her debut has solidified her status as a rising star to watch. As House of Zwide continues to air weeknights at 7:00 PM on eTV, fans will be tuning in, hoping for another glimpse of Zee’s star power. Meanwhile, her partnership with Nivea serves as a reminder that when talent meets opportunity, the results can be nothing short of spectacular.