A housemate in Sierra Leone’s first ever reality show is causing a sensation.

Known by her nickname China Nicky, the winner of television series Big Sister is being talked about across Sierra Leone’s offices, bars, restaurants, transports and classrooms.

During her street parade celebrating her victory, thousands lined the streets waving to her. Speaking to the BBC afterwards, she said:

Honestly it was a surprise to me that I won. I feel very good... I want to set up a school for orphaned children because I am one of their own. I come from a very poor home."

She says the fact that some contestants and viewers have mocked her lack of education has only made her more determined to learn, having dropped out of school as a child after her parents died.

I know I am intelligent. Speaking English is my challenge. That is what I want to learn. I want to assure my critics that in two to three years I will articulate so well in English that they will marvel at me."