Think what you will of her, but Shauwn Mkhize, or MaMkhize, as she is popularly known, knows how to command a room. The Durban-born businesswoman, whose fleet of cars alone is estimated to be worth R300-million, is now one of the most prominent figures in the Premier Soccer League in South Africa. She is no stranger to controversy – but that doesn’t bother her at all!
We sat down with her to get to know the real woman behind the headlines. MaMkhize has graciously invited us to her sprawling home located in a plush Northern Johannesburg suburb. Her home – which is painted in her signature colour, white – overlooks a large resort-style infinity swimming pool complete with a slide, and also a tennis court.
“I’m now at a point where my inhibitions and explorations are not confined to the considerations of a parental figure or a partner”
As you drive towards the white elaborately pillared high white walls, completed by the gilded iron gates, the suspense kicks in as to what lies behind the Royal Palace gates. As the gates open, driving down a long ribbon driveway, that is lined by lanterned-cypress trees, complemented by immaculate lawns, a multi-purpose sport astroturf – and completed by the sprawling view of the all-white Royal Palace, one can’t help but wonder about the interior.
Once inside, the palace is just as luxurious, with a sweeping double staircase, marble floors, and striking gold and black furniture. Massive family and self-portraits line the walls. “My homes also operate as my offices, and I spend most of my time in them. For me, the colour white has always represented purity, renewal and healing. It opens you up to creativity, and – they had palatial white homes. To me, that symbolised authority, power and having control over your space. Also, my dad being a cane farmer, I would envision us living in similar homes as the Ewings, the Carringtons and the Colbys. Back then, I was just a teenager living in my head a little bit, and now, that dream has become a reality,” she tells us.
