With unbeatable drive and passion, multi-talented Noni Mbete has become the ultimate local fitness role model, proving that health and well-being go a long way in striking a balance in womanhood…

Former Mrs Africa World and Mrs Worldwide Woman of Inspiration (2017), Noni Mbete, has made quite the name for herself across South Africa. Known for being an incredible TV host, esteemed speaker and MC Founder of the Resolute Women Campaign (RWC), she continues to use her platform for women’s empowerment, on all levels – mind, body and soul. 

Taking Charge 

Born in the Eastern Cape and raised in Johannesburg, Noni comes from a close-knit unit that has always been BIG on love and strong family values, which has played a positive role in laying a solid foundation for her very own approach to life, relationships and parenting. With her mom as her best friend and dad as a great support, Noni believes that family has been an integral part of her identity.

‘Growing up I had the privilege of being surrounded by so many phenomenal women,’ she says. ‘Both my paternal and maternal grandmothers are among these women who are the most powerful, strong-willed and hardworking women I know!’ she continues. ‘My dad also played a big part in being my mentor, and my first pageant entry at the age of 9 was championed by him. This did a lot for my confidence as a young girl.’

Celebrated as a giver, change-maker and inspirational icon today, Noni has always been quite the active type, taking part
in tennis, netball and cross- country from a young age. For Noni, having a good fitness plan is essential, and with almost 35 000 online followers to date, she has become a symbol for what it truly means to transform the female body and nourish it through all stages of womanhood. ‘Fitness became more serious after I had my daughter and I had to lose 20 kg postpartum.
The weight gain had changed me,’ she admits. ‘I was often more tired, insecure and just unhappy in my new body… So I challenged myself to make healthier choices and spend more time doing the things I love most, such as dancing and working out.’

Doing It All 

Aside from being a TV host and MC, Mbete is quite passionate about finance and is currently pursuing her Honours degree in Business Administration, hoping to go for her Masters thereafter as well. ‘I initially started it as a means to grow in the banking and motor sectors, respectively, and it ended up being something I did for a whole decade,’ she explains. ‘Taking on a management position at such a young age definitely did a lot for me, moulding my business acumen. I now believe that
the sky is definitely not the limit. This is why I constantly push myself just a little further [when it comes to my career and life in general].’

In regards to Noni’s charitable contributions to society, the Resolute Women Campaign (which she founded in 2016) is quite close to her heart. ‘We have continued sponsoring and mentoring girls who have approached us about their Matric balls during the past two years. And we pride ourselves on being able to fulfil their dreams,’ she says. ‘Currently, we are planning our next big project that also involves the boy child. So we have some exciting projects coming up.’

Noni hopes to leave behind a positive legacy, encouraging others to work hard, keep their energy up and never lose sight of their end goal. ‘I hope to teach people that sometimes you have to do what you don’t like in order to do what you love. That takes a great balance of maturity, responsibility and comfortably pursuing that which sets your soul on fire,’ she exclaims. ‘This is what I live by.’ 

The Power Of Balance

A wife and mother to her beautiful children, Noni says that having a well–balanced life is what keeps her going and motivates her to be the best mom, wife and woman that she can be. ‘Finding good balance in my life – emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually – means focusing on my fitness and well-being. Once I am balanced and happy, I am at my optimum,’ she explains. 

‘For me, health and fitness is not only about how I look. It’s primarily about being a stronger, healthier person, and having better mental health. Longevity in being active and sporty, as a mom, is also so important to me as I have very active babies,’ she continues. ‘I’m naturally such a playful and active person, and my kids love this. They obviously benefit from it. So it helps keep my energy levels up. With that said, I do take time to rest and unwind. This is equally important to keep going.’

For Noni, staying equipped to be the best that she can be, in all spheres of her life, is super important. ‘Wake up, decide, commit, and succeed. But don’t forget to rest and love yourself!’ she concludes.  

Noni’s Daily Nutrition

Noni loves keeping her meals light and delicious, and follows a Pollotarian lifestyle – steering away from red meat and pork. And when it comes to cheat-day spoils, she usually opts for some baked cheesecake or ice cream on a sugar cone (sweet tooth alert!). 

AM: I start my day with a delicious smoothie, either at home or at the gym. 

MIDDAY: This is my biggest meal, so usually protein and vegetables, or a healthy wrap. 

PM: A salad, or another smoothie, and more protein.

Words by Chandré Emma Kippie
Photography: Peet Mocke