Ilano

Gumede started her journey as a makeup artist when she was in Grade 8, developing a talent for beating faces and styling hair long before her public debut.^[4][5] She established herself as a hairstylist and makeup artist, specifically known for wig installations.^[6] Her career reached a new level when she joined Big Brother Mzansi season 6 as the first openly transgender housemate in the history.^[7][8] She used the platform as a live portfolio and showcasing her makeup and styling skills to a national audience daily.^[9][10] On the 49th, she was the 11th housemate to be evicted from the house.^[11][12]

During her time on Big Brother Mzansi season 6, Gumede was involved in controversy after several housemates made transphobic remarks about her.^[13][14] The comments drew widespread criticism from viewers and sparked discussions about representation and respect for LGBTQ+ individuals on reality television.^[15] In response, the production issued strikes to the housemates responsible, including Thandeka and Ramona, and some family members publicly apologized for their remarks.^[16][17]