SAFTA-Nominated Zanele Potelwa Returns to Host the Highly Anticipated 12th Season of Tropika Island of Treasure

SAFTA-nominated presenter and media personality Zanele Potelwa is officially returning as host of the upcoming 12th season of the popular reality series Tropika Island Of Treasure. 

This announcement comes at a pinnacle moment for the franchise, which was recently nominated in two categories at the 2026 South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs). The previous season, Tropika Island of Treasure: Zanzibar, scored a nod in the Best Competition Reality Show category while Zanele Potelwa herself was honoured with a nomination for Best TV Presenter, a testament to her infectious energy, professionalism, and the seamless way she navigates the high-stakes drama of the island.

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The 12th season promises fresh twists, high-stakes challenges, breathtaking locations and the trademark adventure that has made the show a fan favourite since it made its debut in 2008.

“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,” Zanele Potelwa says. “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.”

“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,” says Sveti Kovatcheva, Brand Manager: Dairy Fruit Mix at Clover. “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 smoooth, feel-good spirit of Tropika, and we can’t wait for audiences to see her shine again.”

While Zanele’s return sets the stage for another blockbuster season, the mystery surrounding who will be joining her on the sand is about to be revealed. Tropika has confirmed that the star-studded cast of celebrity contestants for Season 12 will be officially announced later this week.

Got what it takes to win a smoooth shared R1 million grand prize and a R10,000 voucher from Pep? Enter to take part in the upcoming season of Tropika Island Of Treasure by uploading your audition tape to either TikTok, Facebook, X or Instagram, tagging @MyTropika and using the hashtag #Tropika. Auditions open on 6 March and close on 5 May 2026.

With the cast reveal just days away, the 12th season of Tropika Island Of Treasure is shaping up to be another smoooth adventure. Expect bigger challenges, bold personalities and the kind of island drama that keeps viewers glued to their screens, with Zanele back at the centre of the action.

For more information, follow @MyTropika for exclusive updates and behind-the-scenes content.