- The South African government has issued a warning to young women following viral videos promoting job opportunities in Russia.
- One video, posted by influencer Cyan Boujee, advertised a two-year “start programme” targeting women aged 18–22.
- Authorities are investigating the scheme amid allegations that recruits may end up working in drone factories linked to Russia’s war in Ukraine.
- A recent report suggests the programme misrepresents job roles and conditions, raising serious concerns about exploitation.
A wave of glossy recruitment videos promising overseas job opportunities has triggered alarm in South Africa — and at the center of the controversy is influencer Cyan Boujee.
With over 1.7 million TikTok followers, Boujee recently posted a video from Tatarstan, Russia, promoting what she called a “start programme” for young women seeking professional growth. The footage showcased sleek accommodations and promised language lessons, fair treatment, and a fresh beginning. But behind the polished pitch, officials say the reality may be far more troubling.
The South African government has launched an investigation into the recruitment drive, warning that such offers — especially those circulating on social media — may be misleading. Public diplomacy chief Clayson Monyela urged young people to be cautious, stressing that unverified job schemes could lead to exploitation.
Concerns escalated after reports surfaced linking the programme to a special economic zone in Tatarstan believed to be involved in drone manufacturing for Russia’s military. A May report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime revealed that many recruits end up working under harsh conditions — either directly assembling drones or serving as support staff in factories.
While Boujee, whose real name is Honour Zuma, has not been accused of any illegal activity, her video has since been deleted. She has not publicly addressed the backlash, though a recent Instagram post suggests she’s unfazed by the drama.
With youth unemployment soaring, many young South Africans are vulnerable to enticing offers that promise escape and opportunity. But officials say the risks — especially when linked to conflict zones and military production — are too high to ignore.
As investigations continue, the government is urging young women to seek verified opportunities and avoid falling for influencer-led recruitment campaigns that may hide more than they reveal.
