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A quiet wave of concern is spreading through Tembisa after three teenage girls from a local government high school admitted they deliberately sought out African Casting in hopes of receiving the now-infamous R10,000 payout.
All three are above 18 but under 20. Legally adults — but still young enough for their choices to raise alarm.
In an exclusive sit-down interview, the trio — who asked not to be named — revealed that they had “done their research” before visiting the agency run by Ivo Suzee. They were fully aware of the controversy surrounding the so-called casting calls. But to them, the R10,000 was louder than the warnings.
“We’re not stupid,” one of them said bluntly. “We know what people say. But we also know what R10,000 can do.”
Another added, “No one is coming to save us.”
Their tone was not rebellious. It was resigned.
One of the girls, who described herself as the breadwinner at home, said both her parents struggle with alcohol addiction. She claims she has been responsible for feeding and clothing her younger brother for years.
“I have to do what I have to do,” she said, staring straight into the camera. “School doesn’t pay. Dreams don’t pay. My brother needs food.”
The girls admitted they had already begun losing hope in “legal ways” of making money, describing job hunting as humiliating and fruitless.
“Everywhere you go, they want experience,” one complained. “How do you get experience if no one gives you a chance?”
In a moment that sparked heated online debate, the trio also revealed they had never dated outside their race but were “open to trying a white person” — saying this was part of what intrigued them about visiting African Casting.
“We wanted to see what it’s about,” one said with a shrug. “People talk, but sometimes you have to see for yourself.”
Their comments have divided social media. Some accuse them of chasing fast money. Others say they are simply products of a broken system where youth unemployment continues to suffocate ambition.
According to recent data, youth unemployment in South Africa remains among the highest in the world. For many young people in townships like Tembisa, desperation is replacing patience.
But while shortcuts may promise quick relief, they often carry long-term consequences.
Before you watch the full interview below, here are ten practical jobs and income ideas young people in South Africa can explore — even in a tough economy:
1. Retail Assistant
Supermarkets, clothing stores, and local spaza shops often hire part-time cashiers and floor assistants. It may start small, but it builds experience and references.
2. Call Centre Agent
Many companies in Johannesburg and Pretoria recruit young people for inbound and outbound call centre roles. Communication skills matter more than formal experience.
3. Waitering and Hospitality Work
Restaurants, cafés, and fast-food outlets regularly need waiters, kitchen assistants, and cleaners — especially during busy seasons.
4. Freelance Hair Braiding or Barbering
Township-based beauty services are always in demand. With basic equipment and skill, young people can earn daily income.
5. Tutoring Primary School Learners
Strong Grade 12 results can be turned into money by offering maths, English, or science tutoring to younger learners.
6. Selling Thrifted Clothing Online
Buying second-hand clothing in bulk and reselling on social media platforms has become a growing hustle among township youth.
7. Delivery Rider or Driver Assistant
Courier companies often need assistants to help with deliveries, providing both income and logistics experience.
8. Learnership Programmes
Government and private-sector learnerships combine training with a monthly stipend, offering both income and a recognised qualification.
9. Event Promotion and Brand Activation
Marketing agencies hire young people to promote products at malls and events — short-term but decent-paying gigs.
10. Digital Freelancing
Basic skills like graphic design, video editing, or social media management can be monetised online, even from a smartphone.
There is no denying the pressure many young South Africans face. Poverty is real. Unemployment is brutal. But risky shortcuts can sometimes cost more than they pay.
As the cameras stopped rolling, one of the girls said something that lingered in the room:
“We don’t want pity. We just want options.”
The question now is — are there enough real options available?
