Exclusive ‘He Opened Up and I Did’: Vuyokazi and Mpumelelo Make Amends

The reality TV star and content creator captured the attention of Mzansi on ‘Uthando Nes’thembu’ before becoming a familiar face on its spin-off, ‘Izingane zeS’thembu.’

She is a proud mother of two children, daughter Mhlophekazi and son Nzulu, whom she shares with her former partner, Mpumelelo. After confirming their split in 2024, Vuyokazi and Mpumelelo’s relationship was riddled with challenges and drama and most of it was publicised.

In an exclusive interview with BabyYumYum in February 2026, Vuyokazi spoke openly about raising her children on her own, with no co-parenting arrangement in sight. However, things have since changed for the better.

The shift became visible in May when she reunited with Mpumelelo at their daughter’s sixth birthday celebration in Cape Town. For Vuyokazi, it was more than just a party; it was a turning point that signalled the beginning of a new chapter centred on unity and giving their children a chance to experience a healthy relationship between parents.

Now, she opens up to BabyYumYum about how they are navigating this new dynamic as they find common ground, rebuild trust, and show up together for their children.

ALSO READ: ‘I No Longer Feel Trapped’: Vuyokazi Nciweni on Life as a Single Mom, Her Makeover and 11 Distinctions

Your daughter’s birthday celebration was truly special. What was the most emotional part of the day for you as a mom?

Walking her in and surprising her was amazing. It’s so good seeing my kids so happy. I work so hard to make sure they’re well taken care of and that their dreams come true.

Fans were surprised to see Mpumelelo at the celebration. What made you both decide he should be part of the day?

We both decided it was time to talk things through and be the best parents to the children. He opened up and I did as well. Things are okay.  Nothing but positive vibes.

How did Mhlophekazi and Nzulu respond to having their father present at the celebration, and what did that mean to you as a mother?

My son doesn’t really know him. My daughter was very excited to see him there. She had no idea he was coming and wasn’t expecting him to be there.

At first, neither of you posted any pictures or videos from the event together, although the décor team did. Was that intentional?

I gave the decor lady permission to post because it wasn’t that deep. It was a celebration and I wanted everyone to feel free to share the moments they had with Mhlophe. We both knew we would share photos of her on her actual birthday and that’s how we’ll continue doing it every year.

How would you describe your current relationship with Mpumelelo today?

We’re good. That’s all.

In your previous interview with BabyYumYum, you shared that there was ‘no co-parenting, no allowance, no involvement.’ Has anything changed since then?

A lot has changed. Hopefully, it remains this way.

Do you think this marks the beginning of a lasting co-parenting relationship and why is it important for children to have both parents involved in their lives?

I’m hoping we continue to co-parent and become friends for the sake of the kids. Kids need both parents there. I want my kids to be able to have a relationship with their father as much as they have with me. No child should be denied parental love. It’s healthy for them and their growth.

Looking back at everything you’ve both gone through publicly, do you feel your communication with Mpumelelo has changed or matured over time?

It has matured.

What boundaries are important to you when it comes to co-parenting while still protecting your peace and wellbeing?

For me, healthy boundaries are everything. As a single mom, protecting my peace has become non-negotiable. I’ve learnt that co-parenting works best when it’s focused on the children and not on personal differences. Boundaries are simple: communicate respectfully, keep conversations about the kids and don’t involve them in adult issues.

You recently celebrated moving into your new apartment. What did that achievement mean to you as a mother?

It meant everything. Finally, my own space and a space for my kids. One of my biggest achievements in my life. I want more, though. I have a two-room apartment and I’m working towards a four-bedroom one day. But it will happen.

Has becoming financially and emotionally independent changed the way you approach motherhood and life in general?

Yes. Becoming financially and emotionally independent has given me the confidence to make better decisions for myself and my children. It has taught me resilience, strengthened my confidence and allowed me to create a more stable and peaceful life for my family.