TikTok Bans South African Influencers After Promoting Controversial Russian Program

Several high-profile South African influencers, including Cyan Boujee and Seemah, have lost their TikTok accounts after endorsing a controversial Russian work-study program known as the “Start Program.”

The program has faced sharp criticism, with many fearing it may exploit young women under the guise of international opportunities.

The South African government confirmed it is investigating the influencers for promoting the program, sparking an online movement to report their accounts. On Wednesday, 27 August 2025, TikTok confirmed the suspensions after users flagged the content under “human exploitation.”

Millions of Followers Wiped Out Overnight

Seemah’s TikTok account, which had an impressive 2.8 million followers, was banned, while Cyan Boujee’s 1.8 million-follower account was also removed. Influencer Sibongile Kajane faced the same fate.

Social media user @Paballo_maseko_ celebrated the news on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “After we reported the influencers’ accounts under ‘human exploitation’ for promoting the Start Program in Russia, TikTok banned their accounts 🤭.”

The user also called on others to continue reporting accounts linked to the program, saying: “Let’s report the others. Aya Langa and a few still remain, but we need to get them.”

Despite public apologies from both Cyan Boujee and Seemah, critics remain unconvinced, citing fears that the Start Program could be tied to human trafficking or exploitation.

Public Reactions: Justice or Too Harsh?

The bans have split public opinion. Many South Africans applauded TikTok’s swift action, arguing it could protect vulnerable women from exploitation.

One user, @iamchris_TK, praised the campaign: “Somebody’s life is saved out there because of you. You’ve done a good job.”

Others admitted to reporting the accounts reluctantly. User @moroaswi confessed: “I contributed for their accounts to be banned. I reported them and I had to do so. But I love them so much… I was left with no choice. We have sisters.”

Still, not everyone agreed. Some felt the influencers should be forgiven.

“Y’all are going for their bag. With this high unemployment, I think they learned their lesson. Forgive them,” wrote @DSaprais58500.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Deputy Minister Comes For Influencers Over Russian ‘Alabunga Jobs’ Scam

It’s unclear whether TikTok’s bans are permanent or temporary. None of the affected influencers have released official statements, though they are expected to appeal the suspensions.

For now, South Africans are closely watching to see whether TikTok will restore the accounts—or if this marks the beginning of deeper consequences for those linked to the controversial program.

---

For More, Follow SurgeZirc SA On  Facebook, X,  Instagram and Bluesky