Trending Now: Zanele Potelwa returns as host for ‘Tropika Island of Treasure’ S12 – Fans React

Media personality Zanele Potelwa is set to officially return as the host of “Tropika Island of Treasure” Season 12.  

Tropika confirmed earlier this week that preparations for the new season are underway. 

Potelwa returns two years after hosting Season 11, which was filmed in Zanzibar in 2024. The season was packed with explosive twists and turns that plunged viewers into a world of fierce competition and surprises. 

The radio presenter expressed excitement about returning as a host, calling it a dream come true. She hinted that the upcoming season will be the biggest yet. 

Potelwa also reflected on her recent South African Film and Television Award (Safta) nomination for Best TV Presenter, stating that the recognition makes the announcement of the new season even more special and gives her extra reason to celebrate.

“Being back as host for ‘Tropika Island Of Treasure’ is a dream come true. I am beside myself that I get to come back and host another season. I can tell you, without a shadow of a doubt, that this is going to be the biggest season yet.”

“I don’t think anyone is ready for the surprises, the celebrity contestants, which island we might be going to, and everything else we have done behind the scenes to make this season special. After being nominated for a SAFTA for the previous season, this announcement is a beautiful way to celebrate, and I cannot wait to be on that island,” she said. 

“Tropika Island Of Treasure” is a popular reality competition show where South African celebrities and public contestants come together on a luxurious island to take on a series of challenges over several weeks, competing for a R1 million grand prize.

Since its debut in 2008, the reality competition show has grown in popularity and earned the South African Film and Television Award (Safta) for Best Competition Reality Programme. It has been widely acclaimed for its breathtaking visuals, thrilling challenges and diverse lineup of contestants. 

“Tropika Island of Treasure” has once again made waves after it recently secured two nominations at the 2026 Saftas. 

Season 11 of the reality competition also earned a spot among the nominees for Best Competition Reality Show. 

The brand manager for dairy fruit mix at Clover, Sveti Kovatcheva, has also confirmed that Potelwa will return as host for the 12th season of the show.

Kovatcheva highlighted Potelwa’s recent Safta nomination, calling it a proud moment for the Tropika team and a testament to the creativity and dedication behind each season. 

“We are incredibly excited to have Zanele return as host for the 12th season of ‘Tropika Island of Treasure’. She brings authenticity, relatability and a vibrant energy that truly connects with viewers.”

“We are incredibly proud of her well-deserved Safta nomination for Best TV Presenter. It’s a proud moment for the entire Tropika family and reflects the passion, creativity and excellence that goes into every season. Zanele truly embodies the smooth, feel-good spirit of Tropika, and we can’t wait for audiences to see her shine again,” she said. 

Potelwa has been a prominent figure in the South African entertainment industry for many years.

She is a radio host on 5FM and a TV presenter on SABC 1’s “Hotspot Selimathunzi”, and has hosted major events, including the red carpet at the 2022 South African Music Awards (Sams) and the Pink Carpet at the 2021 Feather Awards.

She also joined S3’s “Expresso Morning Show” as a host, further expanding her TV career.

Tropika has announced that the star-studded cast for Season 12 will be officially revealed later this week.