Wiseman Mncube is the second star eliminated from this season of the competition.
Recently, actor Wiseman Mncube shared insights about his journey on Tropika Island of Treasure, following his and partner Ashay Sewlall’s exit as the second team in Season 12.
The duo, recognized as Team Pineapple, faced elimination after selecting the red pineapple during a Sunset Ceremony. They were part of a competitive trio that included Team Tropical and Team Green Apple.
These three teams took part in Ball Track, a task that put their balance, patience, and focus to the test. Team Pineapple ended in the last position, concluding their journey on Réunion Island.
Mncube described the challenge as more difficult than it initially appeared.
“It was definitely frustrating because, at first glance, it looked like a simple game. It was easy on the eye, but once I actually started playing, I realised just how challenging it was. It required a lot of balance, focus and patience,” he said.
Wiseman Mncube discusses partnership with Ashay Sewlall
Mncube noted that he and Sewlall formed a strong bond early in the competition. Their compatible personalities contributed to their teamwork.
“If you remember the first episode, I was actually penalised for not wanting to change partners, and that was because Ashay and I had connected so naturally from the beginning,” he said.
He acknowledged their laid-back attitude, which might have hindered them during the elimination phase.
“I think we were a little too relaxed and laid-back for our own good. We got into our heads, and in a way, we became so comfortable that we almost forgot the magnitude of the situation,” he said.
“Looking back, I think we needed to be a lot more switched on and conscious of what was at stake,” he added.
Transition from scripted roles to reality television
The actor explained how participating in a reality show is vastly different from his regular scripted television roles.
“When you’re playing a character, there’s a script, there’s preparation, and you have a character to step into. With reality television, there’s none of that. You’re just being yourself and reacting to situations as they happen,” he said.
He mentioned that the physical and mental demands of the challenges were significant. One specific task required contestants to race into the ocean to gather a ball using hoops.
“Running through water is a completely different experience, and it takes so much more out of you than you expect. It definitely tested me physically,” he said.
Insights gained from the competition
Despite being eliminated early, Mncube expressed that the whole experience highlighted the significance of dedication and stepping outside of his comfort zone.
“The biggest lesson for me is that if you really want something, you have to be willing to fight for it,” he said.
“I’m not naturally a very competitive person, so this experience challenged me in ways I didn’t necessarily expect.”
Tropika Island of Treasure airs every Wednesday at 21:00 on SABC 1, with a repeat on Thursdays at 18:00 on S3.
