Pearl Thusi’s Daughter, Thando Mokoena Sparks Debate After Declaring She’ll Never Pay For A Date

Pearl Thusi’s daughter, Thandolwethu “Thando” Mokoena, has caused quite a stir on social media after sharing her firm stance on dating etiquette — men must pay, or the date is off.
The 18-year-old podcaster and content creator, who recently joined the cast of Youngins, took to Instagram to share a light-hearted but assertive message with her followers.
In a video post, Thando made it crystal clear that she won’t be reaching for her wallet during a date.
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“I want this to be a PSA to every man out there who’s planning on taking me out; don’t ever expect me to have my wallet on me. I’m not whipping out my Apple Pay.
“What I will do is if you ask me to pay for something, I’mma say, ‘Are you serious?’ and walk away and book my Uber home, thanks,” she said.
Mixed Reactions Over Thando Mokoena’s Dating Stance
Thando’s bold declaration sparked a wave of reactions online, with social media users quickly weighing in.
While some applauded her confidence and unapologetic attitude, others questioned whether such a statement was appropriate coming from someone her age.
Some users praised her for setting clear boundaries and embracing her worth, while critics felt her approach might send the wrong message about independence and equality in relationships.
“For Women, The Rules Differ,” Says Thando
Adding a playful twist to the debate, Thando’s caption read: “For women though the rules differ (for relatability, not referring to myself, lol).”
The comment further fuelled conversations around gender dynamics in dating, with many fans sharing their own perspectives in the comment section.
@enigmacode12, wrote, “I dont remember 19yr Olds having money unless you looking for old man same age as your mom.”
@matthewmensah, “Yes Ofcourse a Man is suppose to pay..Always but having that attitude is so off putting 🙄. Like small girl mentality.”

@khanyisanondlwana wrote, “Remember, he owes you nothing. Always have your wallet to at least pay your way. Even Uber or cab home!”
@le_nice_nice wrote, “People in the comments calling her a baby… That time yall lost yals virginity at 8 playing mommy and daddy under a tree…. Kahle bo… Focus on your kids chomies😑.”
@enigmacode12 wrote, “I dont remember 19yr Olds having money unless you looking for old man same age as your mom.”
@m.akhadzi wrote, “Is Thando not allowed to grow up kanti?? What’s wrong with you guys?😕.”
@leruoo11 wrote, “This is where abuse starts when you start expecting someone to@look after you then they feel they have a right to have power over you! Be careful.”
@itslizzy_baby wrote, “People are forgetting that chivalry from a guy is a tradition that’s as old as time. Gaslighting young girls of this generation to pay for a date is seriously absurd when you all benefited the most from “chivalry” back when men were decent. The only thing we should be doing is empowering our girls to AFFORD to take care of themselves not to HAVE TO.”
@cebsie wrote, “Don’t ever leave your wallet when going out on a date, thats if you value your life.”
@cynthia_supremacy wrote, “all the dates I’ve went out on with men , I only had my lipgloss and my phone in my bag 😭I was just taking chances, but hey they didn’t disappoint or expect anything from me. I do take my card now though, just in case.”
@luyonce_nene wrote, “Oh Thando my girl,just yesterday you were born…😢😢😢,I named my daughter after you,ever so beautiful❤️❤️❤️❤️.”
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