Why Are So Many South Africans Still Unemployed In 2024? A Viral TikTok Explains

Holifil

31 Mar, 2025

A Mzansi man made waves on TikTok by shedding light on why unemployment remains a massive issue in South Africa this year.
In his viral skit, Mj revealed the ugly truth about how some employees sabotage new applicants' chances for personal gain.
Social media users were left stunned and deeply moved after watching the powerful video, agreeing that it hits too close to reality.
Creative Director and Social Media Strategist Lulama Hueghs chimed in with advice on how to thrive in today's digital world without needing a university degree.

South Africans have come together to acknowledge the harsh reality that some employees are actively undermining the careers of new applicants. It's not just about qualifications or experience—it's about who you know and what they're willing to do for you.

Mzansi was deeply affected after learning how job applicants are being sabotaged in South Africa. Image: @kingmjrsa Source: TikTok

Mj created a skit that has now gone viral, exposing how a security guard engaged in nepotism at the expense of hardworking job seekers. This eye-opening content sheds light on the darker side of South African workplaces.

Why Are People Still Unemployed? The Truth Is Out

Many South Africans were left heartbroken after discovering one of the reasons behind the country's persistently high unemployment rate. Through his viral video, Mj illuminated how nepotism has taken over the workforce in ways we might not have realized.

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In the video, Mj portrays a security guard who deceives a hopeful job seeker by throwing their resume in the trash while convincing his boss to hire his unemployed, drug-addicted brother instead. The scene is so relatable that it struck a chord with viewers across the nation. Mj emphasizes the importance of networking and building genuine connections because, as he puts it, "this is how the world works."

Check out the video below to see what we're talking about:

Mzansi Reacts: The Reality of Unemployment

Lulama Hueghs, a Creative Director and Social Media Strategist, spoke to Briefly News about the rapidly expanding digital industry and the incredible opportunities it offers to young people struggling to find work. Here's what she had to say:

“The digital marketing industry is booming worldwide, growing from $320 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $1.3 trillion by 2033. Today, everyone is online—spending money, searching for information, or investing. There's so much wealth circulating daily, and people are becoming millionaires within three months just by tapping into this digital landscape.”

Social media users were deeply moved by the video and shared their own experiences:

@Black Putin ✅ explained:

"You get to the gate, and the security guard tells you to hand over R100, promising to ensure your CV reaches HR. If you don't pay up, you're wasting your time."

@Enhle Angel Kgomo koena shared her personal story:

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"I once faced this exact situation. I sat outside for hours hoping the boss would come out, but I held on to faith. Ironically, a lady selling plates outside asked me to deliver an order for her inside. Sometimes, opportunity comes from unexpected places."

@THIMZA_REG0 commented:

"This is exactly what happened to me last month. It's always the security guards who control access to company opportunities."

@Steviey ZA realized:

“Emtee was right about people—they'll do anything to protect their own interests.”

@Tamia 🤍highlighted:

"Even when you send your CV via email, some delete it outright and replace it with applications from their family and friends."

South Africa's Unemployment Crisis: 8.2 Million Without Jobs

Briefly News reported that South Africa's unemployment rate climbed by 330,000 to a staggering 8.2 million in the first quarter of 2024. According to Statistics South Africa's Quarterly Labour Force Survey, youth unemployment increased by 236,000, reaching 4.9 million.

Key sectors like construction and finance saw significant declines in employment during the same period. These numbers paint a grim picture but also highlight the urgent need for innovative solutions to tackle unemployment in South Africa.