South Africa Mourns Beloved Actress Nandi Nyembe, 75, as Debate on Artists’ Struggles Reignites
The death of much-loved South African actress Nandi Nyembe at the age of 75 has left the nation in mourning. While fans poured out grief at her passing, many also expressed anger and frustration at the circumstances that marked her final months. Videos of the ailing actress appealing for financial help went viral, sparking a heated debate about how South Africa treats its cultural icons.
Sitting in a wheelchair, frail and wearing simple pyjamas, mam’Nandi told the public she did not want pity but desperately needed assistance to cover her basic needs. Her greatest wish, she said, was simply to work again so she could support herself. This heartbreaking image of a once-celebrated star stood in stark contrast to the glamour of her decades-long career, during which her face became a staple on South African television screens.
A joint tribute from her family and the government hailed Nyembe as the “very soul of South African storytelling,” praising her not only as an actress but also as a teacher and mentor who inspired generations of young actors in villages and townships. Her passing has reignited calls for structural change in the entertainment industry, with many pointing out that actors in South Africa are freelancers with no pensions, health benefits, or royalties from rebroadcasts of their work. “Every single actor in this country is on an inevitable path to where mam’Nandi was,” warned Jack Devnarain, chairperson of the South African Guild of Actors. “No amount of charity can fix the structural problems in the sector.”

Bartender Job Opportunities at the University of Cape Town (15 Jobs Available)
The Baxter Theatre Centre, a cornerstone of Cape Town’s cultural landscape, is seeking fifteen (15) talented bartenders to join its vibrant bar team on an ad-hoc basis, starting 21 October 2025. This is an exciting opportunity to deliver exceptional bar and barista services to theatre patrons while contributing to the dynamic atmosphere of one of South Africa’s premier cultural venues.
Job Overview
As a bartender at the Baxter Theatre Centre, you will provide top-tier customer service, craft high-quality beverages, and uphold operational excellence in a flexible, ad-hoc role. This position offers a unique chance to work in a prestigious cultural hub, engaging with diverse audiences and enhancing their theatre experience.
Salary: R3,000–R6,000, based on shifts and hours worked.
Requirements
To excel in this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Matric certificate or equivalent (NQF4 level).
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written).
- Fluency in English and at least one other official South African language.
- Ability to thrive under pressure, both independently and in a team.
- Quick responsiveness in emergency situations.
- Strong commitment to customer service excellence.
- Proficiency with electronic point-of-sale (POS) systems.
Advantageous:
- 3–5 years of experience in the hospitality sector, specifically in food and beverage services.
Duties and Responsibilities
Successful candidates will:
- Deliver friendly, efficient service to patrons and staff.
- Manage and account for bar stock with precision.
- Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Process orders and payments via the POS system.
- Maintain, clean, and set up bar equipment.
- Ensure compliance with the Western Cape Liquor Act.
- Reconcile daily sales and cash transactions.
- Adhere to the Baxter Theatre Bar’s code of conduct.
- Assist with parking duties as needed.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must submit the following documents in a single PDF file:
- Completed UCT Application Form
- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Applications should be emailed to:
- Mr. Hubert Rumble: hubert.rumble@uct.ac.za
- Mr. Alexander Petersen: alexander.petersen@uct.ac.za
Important Details
- Reference Number: E25905
- Closing Date: 21 September 2025
- Contact Numbers: 021 685 7880 / 021 680 3986
The University of Cape Town is dedicated to fostering diversity and equity in employment. Preference will be given to qualified candidates from under-represented designated groups, in alignment with UCT’s Employment Equity Plan. For more details, visit the UCT Employment Equity Policy.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and may be required to complete a competency test.
Why Join Us?
Working at the Baxter Theatre Centre is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Cape Town’s thriving arts and culture scene. As a bartender, you’ll play a key role in creating memorable experiences for patrons while gaining valuable hospitality experience in a dynamic, creative environment.
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