IOL Q&A | R178m Powerball jackpot winner speaks

The winner of the R178 million Powerball jackpot has come forward to claim their prize. 

National Lottery Ithuba said the winning ticket was purchased using the FNB banking app with a R15 spend on the ticket. 

The winner and his wife are a young professional couple who said this win has taken a lifetime of anxiety off their shoulders. 

Ithuba said the couple were offered both financial and trauma counselling. 

IOL asked the winner a few questions: 

Where were you when you found out you’d won, and what did you do next?

I was at work when the bank phoned to tell me that I had won over R250 000 and advised me to go to my nearest ITHUBA office. I then continued with my duties as normal.

Who was the first person you told, and why them?

My wife. We were having dinner at the time, and I had no idea that I was the jackpot winner. I was just happy that I had won something more than the usual R15 I normally get.

Have you decided yet whether you’ll keep working or take time off?

I will continue working.

Do you have a dream destination you're going to be visiting•

Yes, but I can’t disclose the exact place (laughs).

Has the reality of the amount sunk in, or does it still feel unreal?

Not yet, it still feels unreal.

What’s the one thing you’re most looking forward to doing once things settle?

Going on holiday. I really need the rest.

Are there any immediate plans for giving back, or is that something you’ll decide later?

I have identified a place where I would like to give back, but I can’t disclose it at this stage.

What’s been the most overwhelming part of the win so far?

I’ve been playing every week, usually spending no more than R22.50. Last week, I played with just R15 and told myself that if it’s meant to be, it will be. Now it’s my time, and it’s unbelievable. It can happen to anyone.

Do u plan on buying a luxury item? If so, what is it?

No, I’m a simple person.

The R178 million Powerball jackpot is the second biggest jackpot win in South African history. 

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