Johannesburg, South Africa – The South African government has issued a warning to young women to be wary of social media campaigns promoting job opportunities in Russia. This comes after several videos by South African influencers, advertising work for young women abroad, went viral.
Authorities are now investigating a promotional video by influencer Cyan Boujee, which has since been removed. In the video, she describes a two-year “start programme” for young women aged 18 to 22 who are seeking professional skills. Boujee, whose real name is Honour Zuma, has a large following on TikTok and filmed the video in Tatarstan, Russia, showing the accommodation provided to recruits. She described the programme as a “fresh new start” where “girls are treated fairly.”
The government has voiced “extreme worry” about the use of influencers to promote unverified foreign jobs. Clayson Monyela, the head of South Africa’s public diplomacy, posted a warning on X, urging young people to exercise caution.
There have been allegations that some of the women recruited for the “start” programme in Tatarstan have been employed at a weapons factory, producing drones for Russia’s war in Ukraine. A report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime stated that recruits are “enticed to participate under false pretences regarding the nature of the work.” It suggests that most work directly in drone production, while others serve as support staff.
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