“I’ve Been Treated Badly”: Woman Sparks Major Debate on Toxic Workplace Culture, SA Can Relate
- A young woman got emotional on social media as she shared her frustration about her working environment
- The woman spoke about workplace bullying, and her story quickly gained massive traction
- The video sparked a huge debate among social media users, who rushed to the comments section to share their thoughts
A young woman has ignited a widespread conversation on social media after sharing her raw and honest experience about toxic work environments, sparking debate and support from thousands across Mzansi.

Source: TikTok
Woman sparks viral chat about toxic workplaces
The lady got candid about her experience in the workplace as she took to her TikTok account under the handle @bracesbylala, where she opened up about the emotional toll of working in a company where employees' level of reconsideration and bullying between women.
@bracesbylala went on to say the following:
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"We don't talk enough about the silent and indirect workplace, the level of reconsideration and bullying, especially between women."
Her candid post quickly gained traction, with users from various sectors jumping in to share similar experiences. Some revealed they had stayed in toxic jobs for years out of fear, while others celebrated leaving and finding healthier environments. The conversation has since evolved into a broader discussion about mental health in the workplace, the importance of setting boundaries, and the need for more supportive leadership.
The viral moment has struck a chord, especially with young professionals who are increasingly prioritising well-being over tradition. As more stories surface online, it’s clear that the topic has hit home, and many hope it sparks change in how companies treat their staff.
With toxic work culture being a silent epidemic for years, the woman’s brave honesty may be the push needed for businesses to take a closer look at their internal culture.
Take a look at the lady's post below:
Mzansi chimes in on the toxic work culture
South Africans reacted as they flooded the comments section, expressing their thoughts on the toxic work culture within companies.
Vera said:
"I’ve been treated badly, and the bad remarks directed at me by a woman who is jealous..I’m depressed and I struggle to sleep, she even made a remark about me struggling to have kids, it’s 02:59 right now and when I think about going there, I get anxiety attacks."
IRIS wrote:
"Nna, I don't understand people being bullied at work.. Nna kefa motho mmae, regardless of age and position, they know me well akegafe nna. We're all there to provide for our kids. I don't bully anyone, therefore, no one will try me."
Phumie replied:
"I got bullied to where I am posted now. I kept quiet the first day and second, then the 3rd day I was spitting fire. They are scared of me, mangivela nje meeting yaphela futhi. I told them anginisabi and nibabi nonke nikhohlakele till today I don’t greet them bayangisaba."
Sabarto8 commented:
"All these people who can't stand up for themselves in the comments, keng? Why le mpha stress soh mara yeh? Like lea nstressa hle. Learn to stand up for yourselves, bhun, don't let people mess with your bread, eh. Lea ba chaba kgane? Aowa maan."

Source: TikTok
SA workers quitting toxic jobs share their stories
- Briefly News previously reported that one man in Mzansi chose his health over his job and the gentleman got candid about quitting his work.
- One young lady shared her emotional journey of quitting her job, and people were touched by her story.
- A South African woman has recently gone viral after sharing a personal decision to resign from her workplace to prioritise her mental health.
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Source: Briefly News