Quick Summary
Robert Ngwenya is a South African entrepreneur and philanthropist who rose to prominence through his entrepreneurial ventures and public controversies. Known for his construction company 20Elevation and philanthropic work through the Mz Ngwenya Foundation, he became a household name following a highly publicized shooting incident in 2021. The incident, which involved an attempt on his life, led to accusations against his ex-wife, Zinhle Mabena. Despite facing financial setbacks and personal struggles, Robert continues to be an influential figure in South Africa’s business and social circles. This article delves into his background, career, family life, and the challenges that have shaped his legacy.
Robert Ngwenya is a name that has piqued the interest of many, especially in South Africa. His story intertwines success, controversy, and a series of life events that have left people talking. From his entrepreneurial ventures to his marriage to actress Zinhle Mabena, Robert’s life has been nothing short of eventful. But who exactly is Robert Ngwenya? What is the truth behind the controversies surrounding him? This article delves deep into his background, family life, businesses, and the scandals that have rocked his world.
Who is Robert Ngwenya? A Look at His Background and Early Life
Before becoming the entrepreneur and public figure many know today, Robert Ngwenya’s journey began in relative obscurity. Born in the North West province of South Africa, Robert’s early life was marked by hardships that would shape his future.
Robert Ngwenya’s Early Years
Robert Ngwenya’s childhood was far from easy. Growing up in the rural areas of North West, his early life was filled with struggles. He spent part of his youth living on the streets, facing challenges that many would consider insurmountable. This tough upbringing did not deter him, though. Instead, it became the driving force behind his determination to succeed. He learned early on how to hustle and make a living, selling small items like toothbrushes and toothpaste at intersections.
His time on the streets gave him a unique perspective on life and the resilience to face adversity head-on. This early exposure to hardship is something he’s mentioned in interviews, noting how it shaped his work ethic and perspective on success.
Robert Ngwenya’s Rise to Success
Despite the challenges, Robert was determined to turn his life around. His entrepreneurial spirit was evident from a young age, and he eventually found his calling in business. Through sheer determination, he made his way into the world of construction and landscaping.
His first major business venture was the founding of 20Elevation, a construction and landscaping firm established in 2011. This company became one of his key business ventures, setting the foundation for his future success. Through hard work and commitment, Robert expanded his portfolio, eventually branching into security services with TSM Security, and even founding a charitable organization, Mz Ngwenya Foundation, which focuses on community development.
His ability to rise from humble beginnings to build a solid business empire is truly inspiring. But as with many success stories, Robert’s journey was not without its bumps in the road, which we’ll explore further as we dive deeper into his personal life and controversies.
Robert Ngwenya’s Personal Life: Marriage, Children, and Family
Robert Ngwenya’s personal life has been as eventful as his business career. His marriage to actress Zinhle Mabena in 2017, and the subsequent events that followed, captured the public’s attention. This section takes a closer look at Robert’s family life, his children, and the ups and downs of his marriage.
Who is Robert Ngwenya Married To?
In 2017, Robert Ngwenya married South African actress Zinhle Mabena, best known for her role in the hit TV show Isibaya. The couple’s wedding was relatively private, but it didn’t take long for them to become the subject of public scrutiny. Their relationship seemed like a fairytale at first, with the two of them sharing their love on social media and in interviews.
However, things took a dramatic turn as the years passed. The couple’s marriage faced numerous challenges, especially after Robert became entangled in various legal issues. Zinhle, once a beloved actress, became embroiled in the same controversies, with accusations of attempted murder against her. The couple’s tumultuous relationship, which seemed so full of promise, ended in a very public divorce.
Robert Ngwenya’s Children
Together, Robert and Zinhle have two children, adding to Robert’s growing family. However, this wasn’t the first time Robert became a father. Prior to marrying Zinhle, Robert had three more children from a previous marriage, bringing his total number of children to five.
Despite the breakdown of his marriage to Zinhle, Robert remains an active father. His role as a parent is central to his identity, and he continues to be involved in his children’s lives, even as his personal and professional worlds have been rocked by scandals and legal battles.
The End of the Marriage: Divorce and Legal Issues
In 2021, Robert and Zinhle’s relationship took a sharp turn when Robert accused Zinhle of attempted murder. On January 28, 2021, a shooting incident occurred, leading to the death of Robert’s bodyguard. Robert claimed that Zinhle was behind the attack, which was allegedly intended to kill him. Zinhle, however, denied the accusations and suggested that the entire incident was a setup aimed at tarnishing her name.
The legal proceedings that followed were intense. Zinhle was arrested on a charge of conspiracy to commit murder and was eventually released on bail. In response, Zinhle filed a protection order against Robert, further complicating their already strained relationship.
The couple eventually separated, with Robert facing mounting financial issues, including the repossession of cars and properties. Their once-promising marriage had fallen apart, leaving both parties dealing with the consequences in the public eye.
Robert Ngwenya’s Businesses and Investments
Beyond his personal life, Robert Ngwenya has built an impressive business empire. From his humble beginnings to becoming an influential entrepreneur, his ventures have shaped his reputation in both the business world and the public sphere. This section explores his business achievements, struggles, and investments.
Robert Ngwenya’s Business Ventures
Robert Ngwenya is a self-made businessman with several successful ventures under his belt. One of his most notable businesses is 20Elevation, a construction and landscaping company founded in 2011. Over the years, 20Elevation has grown, taking on numerous projects in South Africa and beyond. Robert’s expertise in construction and his ability to secure large contracts helped establish his reputation as a reliable and ambitious entrepreneur.
In addition to his work with 20Elevation, Robert has also expanded into security services, founding TSM Security. The company provides professional security solutions, a growing need in South Africa, and has been part of Robert’s broader vision of expanding his business portfolio.
The Rise and Fall of His Business Empire
While Robert’s businesses initially thrived, his financial situation took a downturn in recent years. Reports have surfaced about the repossession of his luxury cars and the failure to meet monthly payments on his property. Robert’s R7 million house, which had been a symbol of his success, faced issues with overdue payments. These financial struggles, coupled with the legal issues surrounding his marriage and personal life, have led to a decline in his wealth.
However, Robert has also been involved in philanthropy, which speaks to his desire to give back to the community. He founded the Mz Ngwenya Foundation, which aims to support various causes in South Africa, such as education, health, and economic empowerment.
Despite his recent financial troubles, Robert remains a figure of resilience. His businesses may be facing challenges, but his legacy as an entrepreneur and philanthropist continues to make an impact.
The Attempted Murder and Shooting Incident: What Happened to Robert Ngwenya?
The attempted murder incident involving Robert Ngwenya sent shockwaves through the media and public. In January 2021, Ngwenya became the target of a dramatic shooting incident that left the public asking questions about what had truly transpired.
The Shooting Incident: A Deadly Encounter
On January 28, 2021, Robert Ngwenya’s life was threatened when gunmen opened fire on him while he was inside his vehicle. The attack was believed to be an assassination attempt on Robert, and it came as a shock to many, considering his growing reputation in both business and politics. His bodyguard was tragically killed in the incident, adding to the gravity of the situation.
According to Robert, the attack was a result of his philanthropic efforts in Brits, which made him a target of powerful figures. The specifics of the event remain unclear, but Robert publicly stated that the shooters intended to kill him.
Zinhle Mabena’s Involvement in the Scandal
Following the shooting, Robert accused his then-wife, Zinhle Mabena, of being behind the attack. He claimed that the plot was orchestrated by her, and this claim was one of the main reasons for the public and media frenzy surrounding their relationship.
Zinhle, however, vehemently denied the accusations and maintained that the shooting was staged in an attempt to ruin her reputation. As the legal battle unfolded, Zinhle was arrested on charges of conspiracy to commit murder, further intensifying the controversy.
The shooting incident and the subsequent legal disputes played a major role in the couple’s eventual separation, and the matter remains unresolved to this day.
Is Robert Ngwenya Still Alive? What is His Current Status?
After the shooting incident, many wondered if Robert Ngwenya had survived the attack. Fortunately, Robert was able to recover from the gunshot wounds and was later seen making public appearances. His survival, despite the severity of the attack, highlighted his resilience.
Robert Ngwenya’s Current Status
As of now, Robert Ngwenya is still alive. While he experienced some financial and personal struggles in the wake of the attempted murder, his life and career continue to be a topic of discussion in South Africa. Despite facing numerous challenges, including legal battles and the collapse of his marriage, Robert continues to maintain his public profile.
However, his life has certainly changed since the shooting. Financial difficulties have followed, and his businesses have suffered. The repossession of his properties and cars paints a picture of someone who, while resilient, is dealing with the fallout from both his personal and professional controversies.
Robert Ngwenya’s Lifestyle: Cars, Luxury, and Reputation
Robert Ngwenya’s rise to success was accompanied by a luxurious lifestyle. From flashy cars to an opulent home, he seemed to have it all. But with his financial troubles mounting, some of the symbols of his success have been taken away.
The Luxury Cars
Robert Ngwenya was known for his expensive cars, which served as a status symbol in South Africa’s high society. His car collection was a reflection of his success as an entrepreneur, with high-end vehicles that spoke to his wealth and taste. However, in recent years, many of his vehicles have been repossessed due to his inability to keep up with payments.
The $7 Million House and Financial Struggles
At the peak of his success, Robert lived in a mansion worth R7 million (roughly $370,000). However, the house, like his cars, has faced financial setbacks. Reports have suggested that Robert failed to keep up with his R28,000 monthly mortgage payments, leading to the property being at risk of repossession.
These material losses serve as a stark contrast to the lavish lifestyle Robert once enjoyed. Yet, despite these struggles, he continues to maintain his public persona, and his reputation as an entrepreneur and philanthropist endures.
Insights and Lessons from Robert Ngwenya’s Life and Career
Robert Ngwenya’s life is filled with lessons, both in business and personal conduct. His story offers valuable insights into entrepreneurship, resilience, and the consequences of life’s decisions.
1. The Power of Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Robert’s journey from street hustler to successful businessman is a testament to the power of resilience. His ability to overcome a difficult childhood and make something of himself is an inspiration to many. Even after facing public humiliation and financial struggles, Robert has continued to persevere, demonstrating that success is not always linear.
2. The Importance of Business Diversification
Robert’s business ventures span across multiple industries—from construction to security services. This diversification allowed him to build a more stable empire. However, his downfall also shows the dangers of overextending oneself. It’s a reminder to balance ambition with practicality.
3. The Impact of Personal Decisions on Professional Life
Robert’s personal life, especially his high-profile marriage to Zinhle Mabena, highlights how personal decisions can affect one’s professional reputation. The publicized divorce, allegations of attempted murder, and financial struggles illustrate the ways in which personal drama can impact a person’s business empire.
4. Philanthropy: Giving Back to the Community
Despite his personal issues, Robert has made a positive impact through his Mz Ngwenya Foundation. His charitable efforts have focused on education and health, showing that even those who have faced adversity can give back to the community.
Conclusion: The Complex Legacy of Robert Ngwenya
Robert Ngwenya’s life is a complex tapestry of triumph, controversy, and resilience. From his humble beginnings to his rise as a successful entrepreneur, Robert has faced challenges that many people would not have overcome. His story is a mixture of inspiration and cautionary tales, showing that even the most successful individuals are not immune to personal and professional struggles.
While his businesses and public persona may have suffered from his personal issues, Robert Ngwenya’s legacy as a self-made entrepreneur, philanthropist, and survivor remains intact. His life serves as a reminder that the journey to success is often paved with obstacles, but it is how one responds to those obstacles that truly defines their legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about Robert Ngwenya, his life, career, and the controversies surrounding him:
1. Who is Robert Ngwenya?
Robert Ngwenya is a South African businessman, philanthropist, and former ANC representative. He is known for his entrepreneurial ventures, including his company 20Elevation, which focuses on construction and landscaping. Ngwenya also runs the Mz Ngwenya Foundation, which focuses on social welfare initiatives. He became widely known after the publicized shooting incident and the subsequent accusations of an attempted murder involving his ex-wife, Zinhle Mabena.
2. What happened in the shooting incident involving Robert Ngwenya?
In January 2021, Robert Ngwenya was the target of an attempted murder when gunmen opened fire on him while he was in his vehicle. His bodyguard tragically died in the incident. Robert later accused his wife, Zinhle Mabena, of orchestrating the attack, while she denied the allegations, claiming it was a set-up to tarnish her reputation.
3. Is Robert Ngwenya still alive?
Yes, Robert Ngwenya survived the shooting incident and remains alive. Despite the challenges he has faced, including financial issues and personal drama, he continues to be an active figure in South African business and philanthropy.
4. What businesses does Robert Ngwenya own?
Robert Ngwenya has been involved in several business ventures, including:
- 20Elevation: A construction and landscaping company.
- TSM Security: A security services company.
- Nomacala Holdings: A company he co-founded.
- Mz Ngwenya Foundation: A charitable organization focused on social welfare.
He is also involved in politics as a representative for Ward 5 in the Madibeng Sub Region in the North West.
5. What is Robert Ngwenya’s net worth?
While Robert Ngwenya’s net worth has fluctuated, it is estimated that he once had significant wealth. However, due to financial difficulties, including the repossession of his assets, his financial status has faced setbacks. His exact current net worth is unspecified, but it is clear that he has faced both high levels of success and financial challenges.
6. What lessons can be learned from Robert Ngwenya’s life?
Robert Ngwenya’s life offers several key lessons:
- Resilience in the face of adversity: Despite facing multiple setbacks, Robert has shown remarkable strength in overcoming challenges.
- The importance of business diversification: His success in multiple business sectors helped him build a more secure financial foundation.
- Personal decisions impact professional life: Robert’s personal life, particularly his marriage to Zinhle Mabena, has had a significant impact on his professional reputation.
- Giving back to the community: Through his charitable foundation, Robert continues to support the community despite facing personal difficulties.
7. What is Robert Ngwenya’s relationship with Zinhle Mabena?
Robert Ngwenya and Zinhle Mabena were married in 2017, but their relationship became strained over time. In 2021, Zinhle was arrested after accusations of attempting to murder Robert. They eventually divorced, and their tumultuous relationship has become a central part of Robert’s public persona. The couple has two children together, and their family life has been marked by controversy.
8. What is the status of Robert Ngwenya’s assets?
Many of Robert Ngwenya’s assets, including his luxury cars and a R7 million house, have faced repossession due to his financial difficulties. These setbacks highlight the volatile nature of wealth and the risks that come with maintaining a high-profile lifestyle.
Author’s Note
Writing about Robert Ngwenya has been an eye-opening experience. His story, filled with incredible highs and devastating lows, offers a unique lens through which we can explore not only the life of a businessman but also the complexities of personal relationships, fame, and the challenges that come with both wealth and notoriety.
Through this article, I’ve aimed to provide a comprehensive and factual account of Robert Ngwenya’s life, career, and the controversies that have surrounded him. My goal was to offer a balanced perspective, focusing on both his successes and the challenges he’s faced. While many may know of him through his business ventures and the attempted murder allegations, there’s much more to his story than just these dramatic headlines.
Whether you’re learning about Robert for the first time or are already familiar with his story, I hope this article provided you with new insights and a deeper understanding of his journey. Life is rarely as simple as it seems from the outside, and Robert Ngwenya’s story is a testament to the complexities of human experience—one that involves ambition, failure, resilience, and the consequences of the choices we make.
Thank you for reading, and I encourage you to explore more of Robert’s work and life to get an even fuller picture of who he is and how his journey continues to unfold. If you have any thoughts or questions, feel free to leave a comment or connect for further discussion.
