Flashing it to liberate all the sisters
DURBAN’S Zodwa Wabantu, 32, is anything but ordinary.
The internet sensation, who has a massive following on social media platforms, is taking a stand for ordinary women.
Zodwa Wabantu, whose “leg game” move is a major hit on YouTube, came under fire at last week’s Vodacom Durban July glamour event for letting her cellulite show.
A video clip of her in her little black number with sexy slits skyrocketed on social media, gaining millions of views – but it wasn’t only the titillating slits or even the fact she dared to go panty-less that’s been getting all the attention.
Commenting on her daring VDJ outfit, Zodwa Wabantu said this week: “All my critics were saying ‘how can she let her cellulite show?’
“Well, I’m very happy with my cellulite and for all the women out there I want to say, this is us, we are not perfect and that’s okay.
“I don’t want to be perfect, I want to be imperfect, so don’t change me,” she said.
Owning it with attitude has won her admiration from women across the country, although some social media critics have not held back, mocking her “leg move”, while others who appear to have grudging admiration have described her as an “effortless hustle”.
Slamming the idea that women need to appear flawless, whether on social media on out on the street, Zodwa Wabantu said: “I don’t wear make-up and I don’t wear weaves, the natural look is in.”
Moving to Durban four years ago from Gauteng, she worked as a debt collector. She found Eyadini in uMlazi the right place to party and it set off her dance career.
“I would come out to have some shisa nyama and dance. I think there must be something special about me as everyone else would get on to the dance floor.”
Her rhythmic moves, particularly to House music, were soon gathering a major following on YouTube.
Since then, she has shot videos with the likes of Jimmy Dludlu and Emtee and has travelled across the country, as well as going to London. She is heading to Mozambique next month.
“I have also been to Swaziland, and every booking is different. I get energy from the people at the event,” she said.
Her 11-year-old son is her pride and joy and Zodwa Wabantu said being a mother did not have to be all about traditional motherhood.
“People criticise me for being in clubs and dancing, but I’m making a living. I’m changing how women see themselves. We no longer live for men, but live with them because of love.
“I think we are still giving men the power in that it is about them. Women must change that mindset. We are equal and we can share responsibilities. For women out there, you can still respect your man, but also take your own place,” she said.
When she’s not on the dance floor, Zodwa Wabantu loves swimming, which she describes as “energy-giving”, while shisa nyama remains her all-time favourite when eating out.