As anticipation builds for the return of Married at First Sight Mzansi, one of the show’s relationship experts has shared valuable insights into modern dating, relationships, and why many people struggle to find lasting love.
The popular reality series is set to return for its third season on July 5, bringing together a new group of singles willing to take an extraordinary leap of faith by marrying complete strangers. Guided by a panel of relationship experts, participants will attempt to build meaningful relationships after meeting for the very first time at the altar.
Among the experts returning this season is relationship specialist Thabang Mashigo, who says her passion for love and human connection motivated her decision to continue with the show. According to Mashigo, genuine connections may be rare, but they do exist, and the programme provides a unique opportunity to explore whether carefully matched strangers can develop lasting relationships.
Mashigo explained that the matchmaking process involves much more than physical attraction or chemistry. Before selecting couples, experts carefully assess participants’ relationship histories, communication styles, emotional needs, personal values, life goals, and psychological compatibility. The aim is to create matches that have the strongest chance of success beyond the initial excitement of meeting someone new.
She acknowledged that viewers often question certain matches and assume the experts should be able to predict which couples will succeed. However, Mashigo stressed that while professional expertise and psychological assessments guide the process, matters of the heart remain unpredictable.
According to her, one of the biggest factors that determines whether a relationship survives is willingness. She believes successful relationships are built by individuals who are prepared to learn about each other, adapt, compromise, and remain committed even when challenges arise.
Mashigo noted that many people focus too heavily on chemistry and excitement while overlooking qualities that sustain long-term relationships. She argues that consistency, reliability, emotional maturity, and dependability are often more important than the initial spark many people seek when choosing a partner.
Another common mistake people make, she says, is confusing what they want with what they need. While attraction remains important, she believes qualities such as kindness, trustworthiness, and emotional stability often play a much bigger role in creating healthy partnerships.
Away from the television experiment, Mashigo also highlighted several behaviours that frequently sabotage relationships. These include seeking validation from a partner, relying on someone else to fill emotional gaps, ignoring warning signs, and entering relationships before developing a healthy sense of self.
One of her strongest warnings was against dating a person’s potential rather than accepting who they currently are. She explained that many people become attached to the future version they imagine someone could become, instead of evaluating the reality of the person standing before them.
Looking ahead to season three, Mashigo revealed that viewers can expect unexpected developments, emotional journeys, and couples who surprised even the experts. She believes the new season will challenge traditional views on relationships, masculinity, femininity, and marriage in modern South Africa.
With fresh personalities, emotional stories, and new relationship challenges, the upcoming season promises another fascinating look into the realities of love, commitment, and human connection.
