Cyan Boujee Issues Apology After Promoting Suspected Russian Job Scam

South African DJ and influencer Cyan Boujee has apologised for her role in promoting the controversial Russian Alabuga Start Programme, which critics warn may be a trafficking scheme disguised as a study-and-work opportunity.

The 22-year-old, whose real name is Honour Zuma, took to social media after facing intense backlash. In a video statement, she admitted her involvement but insisted she had not been paid for promoting the programme.

“I’ve been quiet because I was waiting for the programme to release a statement on my behalf, but it seems they are wasting my time,” she said. “Human trafficking is a serious matter, and I do not stand with that. I believe this is a huge learning curve for me and the other influencers.”

She added that her motivation was not money, revealing she had more posts scheduled but cancelled them once allegations surfaced.

What the Russian Programme Promises

The Alabuga Start Programme advertises itself as an international work-and-study scheme targeting young South African women aged 18–22. Benefits reportedly include free housing, a monthly stipend of $541–$611, and career training in fields like hospitality, catering, and manufacturing.

But reports from participants and investigators paint a different picture. Allegations include:

• Passports confiscated on arrival in Russia

• Recruits forced into drone factory work tied to the Russia-Ukraine war

• Isolation in remote areas with limited freedom of movement

Some women who travelled under the scheme reportedly felt trapped, unable to leave despite promises of career growth.

Anele Mdoda Investigates

Radio host Anele Mdoda addressed the controversy live on her 947 breakfast show, calling the programme directly on air with her co-presenters.

The call, riddled with confusion and repeated transfers, yielded vague answers. A man with a Russian accent eventually confirmed the programme existed, speaking of “housing benefits” and “promotions every six months” in jobs such as barista training or chef work.

But Mdoda and co-host Thembekile Mrototo raised concerns about reports of young women being redirected to weapons factories. “What is the South African government doing to protect our citizens?” Mdoda asked listeners, urging parents and communities to discuss the risks openly.

Influencers Under Pressure

The controversy highlights growing scrutiny of South African influencers who endorse programmes or products without fully investigating them. Cyan Boujee admitted fault but argued that her misstep could at least raise awareness.

“We are humans and we make mistakes,” she said. “I think the positive out of this is that the girls will be helped. That is the main thing.”

With the Russian job scam saga still unfolding, pressure is now mounting on both the South African government and online platforms to step in and protect vulnerable young women from exploitation.

{Source: TheCitizen}

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