They
were both in Big Brother Africa 2009 edition. Then, Kevin Chuwang Pam
emerged winner. Now married to former Elizabeth Gupta, another BBA
housemate, they speak about their marriage
When and how did you meet?
Kevin: We met in 2009 on the Big Brother Africa reality show.
When did you decide to marry her?
Kevin: I took the
decision as soon as I stepped out to the real world looking at the need
to be more responsible and focused. She was a perfect match to make my
dreams come true. I would say I am the most favoured housemate that Big
Brother has ever produced. I did not only win, I found fame, fortune and
a life partner. What more can I ask for? My wife is the best thing to
ever happen to me.
Elizabeth: His proposal
shocked me because I felt it was too soon and we dated for only three
months after BBA. Initially, I thought it was because of pressure from
our fans and I wasn’t too sure he knew what he was doing. I kept asking
if he really wanted to settle down after the fame or if we would just
get into the marriage and get out.
Why did you agree to marry him?
Elizabeth: I am a risk
taker and none of my friends knew what was going on. My first trip to
Nigeria was for his show and till date, I sometimes don’t even know why I
agreed. I thought it was one of those things you do and later regret.
But here I am, happy I made the choice. It is the best thing I have
done, no regrets.
Were your parents supportive of the union?
Kevin: We enjoyed support from our families.
Elizabeth: My father is
late and my mum was a huge fan of Kevin while he was in the BBA house.
She was angry when I kept turning down his advances in the house and had
to ask my closest friends who the serious guy I was dating outside the
house was.
How do you manage cultural differences between Nigeria and Tanzania?
Kevin: There have been a
lot of adjustments because culture shock plays a role. My wife had to
adjust a lot since she left her country, Tanzania, to live with me here
in Nigeria. These adjustments include food, our driving method, and
language.
Elizabeth: I am very adventurous with food and I cook one of the best Egusi, Kuka
and vegetable soups. When people eat it they don’t believe I cooked it.
I make his local delicacies very well but I am still trying to adjust
to how aggressive people can be in Nigeria, not in a bad way though.
Back in Tanzania, we are slow and a bit laidback but there is this drive
in Nigeria. It is sometimes overwhelming and I am trying to catch up. I
drive on the right hand side in Tanzania and on the left hand in
Nigeria. Sometimes, I go blank while driving in Nigeria and I will ask
myself what side I should be on. Apart from these, I have adjusted well.
When you were courting, did it cross your mind that she might disappoint you?
Kevin: It is always possible to have such thoughts but faith always supersedes every negative thoughts.
Elizabeth: When some
Nigerian ladies got to know we were dating I got threats and stinkers. I
heard statements such as, ‘You are reaping where you didn’t sow,’ and
so many more. These lasted for a while but it has stopped now.
Are there challenges working together as a couple?
Kevin: Nothing serious because everyone faces challenges in marriage.
Your union has been waxing stronger and it has shut down naysayers. What is the secret?
Kevin: Here is someone
the whole world said was not interested in me or wanted me while we were
in the House together. They didn’t see what could lead to marriage
between us after Big Brother. But here we are. She has been in Nigeria
since then and adapting very well. She is doing really well. Our union
has surpassed expectations of many.
Elizabeth: I feel proud and happy to be married and still remain in love. Our marriage is a great achievement.
But do you think relationships that happen on the BBA show can last?
Elizabeth: Yes, it can
and all depends on the background of the parties involved. Unlike when
you are dating for three years, both of you get to see the good and the
ugly side of each other in the house for three months.
How do you react to tales that you agreed to marry him because of his BBA $200,000 prize money?
Elizabeth: Initially,
it bothered me but not anymore after I realised that I am the only one
who understands me best. Whenever I am asked this question, I reply,
‘Does any woman want a broke man? Yes I went for the rich guy.’
What are the most valuable gifts you have shared?
Kevin: Everything I own belongs to her and the question of sharing doesn’t even come up.
What qualities do you admire most in your partner?
Elizabeth: I love the fact that he is very spiritual and focused. He also helps me to grow spiritually.
What are some of the Nigerian stereotypes you have dropped since your wedding to Kevin?
Elizabeth: Since I
married Kevin, four Tanzanians have called me and they were seeking
advice because they are dating Nigerian men. We have hosted some here in
Nigeria, seen their relationships grow and now they are married. In
fact, East African girls are crazy about Nigerians.
Why the preference for Nigerian men?
Elizabeth: They say they are very caring and you can’t find this anywhere else.
How do you handle differences?
Kevin: We handle it maturely and lovingly correct each other.
Elizabeth: I am first to apologise because I can’t stay angry for so long even if he is wrong.
Do you run a joint account?
Kevin: Yes we do and it was a mutual agreement.
How do you handle advances from the opposite sex?
Kevin: You always have to draw a line whether married or not. I guess that line has helped us manage our fans.
Elizabeth: He makes it easier for me because he takes me along and makes sure I know about them. My love for my husband is rock solid.
What gives you the assurance that he will not fall into temptation?
Kevin:
The only assurance is in the grace of God.
Elizabeth: I love and absolutely trust my husband.
Do you share same friends?
Kevin: Yes, we share some close friends.
Who is stricter as parent?
Kevin:
I think I am.
What adjustments have you made since marriage?
Elizabeth: Priorities have changed. Now, when there is money on the table it’s the kids and Kevin first before I think of myself.
What don’t you like about your husband?
Elizabeth: He likes keeping quiet about certain issues and sometimes it works but there are things we need to address as a couple.
Do you still have date nights as a couple?
Elizabeth: Yes we still go clubbing and travel occasionally.
Kevin: Yes, we do but the frequency dropped as kids started coming.
How do you intend to spend Christmas as a family?
Elizabeth: We will visit Jos and give out gifts to the less privileged.
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