MINNIE & UNATHI: BESTIES FOREVER

Can you believe singer and radio personality UNATHI NKAYI and TV presenter MINNIE DLAMINI-JONES have been friends for a decade? The besties met at Urban Brew studios when Minnie was just starting out her TV career. We find out how well Unathi (42) and Minnie (30) really know each other.

What were your first impressions of each other?

Unathi: Her humility struck me and her love of being Zulu resonated in me because I share the same pride in being Xhosa. Minnie: I was in awe of her talent and her ability to engage an audience. She’s unapologetically herself and I believe she thrives because of her authenticity.

What’s your favourite memory together?

Unathi: We have so many but I’d say the year 2017, which I call The Year of Minnie’s Weddings. Minnie was one of few people who knew I was going through a divorce that year. She was planning her nuptials and called me to say I didn’t have to attend any of them [her various ceremonies] if it was too much for me. I ended up going to all of them. I always tell her she saved my life and that she and her husband were the pillar of love I needed to get through that tough year. Minnie: My favourite memory is when she arrived at my traditional wedding. There were waterworks, makeup smudged. It wasn’t pretty, but it was one of my most beautiful moments with her.

What’s her preferred drink?

Unathi: We like our bubbly, hey. It’s cute and keeps one giddy and silly. Minnie: Champagne – we both love our bubbles and good food at home with our families.

What’s her guilty pleasure?

Unathi: Shoes . . . world-class, one-of-a-kind shoes. Minnie: It’s the same for both of us: red bottoms [Christian Louboutins]!

Who’s the clingier parent?

Unathi: Minnie is far more confident as a new mom than I ever was with both my kids. I think we both understand that our work commitments don’t allow us to be too clingy. Minnie: I’d say I’m more protective because I have a newborn.

‘Minnie has been around for many milestones. My kids have always had aunty Minnie and now i’m an aunty too’ – Unathi