TikTok’s Shocking Glimpse Into the World of Dating a ‘Gangster’ Stirs Mzansi Reactions
- TikTok video by @nyla_zaa showed what life looks like dating a "gangster", and it went viral
- The video features a creative sequence of scenes, including a large roll of money and a police car
- Candice Lambert explains why women go for 'bad boys' and what the psychology behind this is
- Mzansi responds with a mixture of amusement and curiosity about the young woman's storytelling
A short but striking TikTok video shared by user @nyla_zaa, in which a young woman humorously explains what it's like to date a "gangster," has sent shockwaves through the social media community in Mzansi.
The quick video offers an unconventional look at a potentially risky lifestyle, leaving viewers both intrigued and astonished by her candid revelation.
Woman shows what dating a gangster looks like
"And I was eating": Black woman going for a hairdo gets covered in buckets of dandruff, SA horrified
The video shared by @nyla_zaa takes her followers on a humorous journey that starts with her peering into a mirror. She then reveals her hand holding a large roll of money, and the video concludes with her standing beside a police car. While the video appears lighthearted, it hints at deeper and more complex aspects of life and relationships.
Take a look:
Mental health advocate weighs in
Candice Lamber, a passionate mental health advocate and psychologist, shared some invaluable insight into the matter.
"Gangsterism is still prevalent and very much active in a lot of the rural communities in South Africa. When we think about the word “gangster” we think about groups formed where violent crimes are central to their “belonging” and identity.
"Gang violence has been plaguing communities, especially coloured communities for decades and continues to be a way of life in many. Dating a gangster or being in a gang is something that happens and the causes are multi-faceted and complex.
"To try and simplify this, we need to consider the factor of “belonging”. According to the needs of ALL humans, along with basic physiological needs we have this need and requirement to feel like we “belong”. Oftentimes a male teenager will fall prey to gangs where they have had struggles at home such as emotional and physical neglect, abuse or other challenges that falls outside of the category of these challenges being age appropriate. The gang offers the promise of belonging and to be seen and heard, even if the reasons for being seen and heard are twisted or sinister in nature. Similarly, many teenage girls look up to gangsters and have the same need to belong and fit in: to be seen and heard. The challenges though with gangsterism is that – and they often say: “Once you are in, it’s hard to leave” and that you get caught up in the sinister nature of how the gang (and gangster) operates, being involved in narcotics and alcoholism as well as possibly having more than 1 girlfriend. The “thrill” can wear off at some point and then what is left is to pick up the pieces of the consequences; this being possibly not attending school (as often girls who date gangsters are kept out of school and other forms of protection such as from family and authorities), high anxiety while needing to consider their whereabouts and if their boyfriend is at some point going to turn violent on them or already have been abusive from practically the beginning. Addiitionally, there are high possibilities of substance abuse in the girls as well as they are influenced by their partners. This causes further downward spirals to depression and anxiety as their friends have moved up grades, possibility leaving the community and going to university and even making something of their lives.
"It takes strength, resilience (built through parents and family) and determination to leave a community or a relationship that was once toxic with possibility having to start from the beginning in many instances."
Mzansi prays for her safety
The video immediately caught the attention of TikTok users, who were both amused and concerned by the young woman's portrayal of dating a "gangster." While the video was presented humorously and theatrically, it sparked discussions about the complexity of life choices, relationships, and the need for safety and happiness.
@CuriousCas said:
"This video is making me question all my life choices. A rollercoaster of emotions!"
@RhumizeSA shared:
"Sometimes, TikTok reveals more about life than we expect. Real talk."
@LLulu shared:
"Hilarious, but also kinda scary... where's the rest of the story?"
@PhumileZondi89 shared:
"I hope she's safe and happy. Life can be quite a ride."
@TumiZA said:
"A child does not stand when talking to an elder": Mzansi disapproves of a Xhosa woman's lobola negotiations
"Is this a funny story, a real one, or a lesson? TikTok mysteries!"
Welcome Witbooi: Life story of the former Numbers Gang's leader
Briefly News reported that Welcome Witbooi is a former South African gangster leader. He was the Number Gang's leader that ruled South Africa's prisons in a notoriously ruthless and secretive manner. He had to do what was needed of him to rise through the ranks and survive prison until one day when he decided enough was enough.
As a gangster member, he was an excellent player of his part. He was articulate with a calm and collected demeanour. He would dress the part when working at corporate events, covering his tattoos with collars and long sleeves. Luckily, he had a turnaround for the best.
What was Welcome Witbooi age when he joined the gang? Witbooi was only 12 years old when he became a member of the 28s gang group. He was going about his normal life when a gang boss and drug lord by the name, Mayor of Valhalla Park called him to his car. The boss told him he had seen much potential in him.
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Source: Briefly News
Denika Herbst (Editor) Denika Herbst is a Human Interest writer at Briefly News. She is also an Industrial Sociologist with a master's degree in Industrial Organisational and Labour Studies from the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, which she completed in 2020. She is now a PhD candidate at UKZN. Denika has over five years of experience writing for Briefly News (joined in 2018), and a short time writing for The South African. You can reach her via: denika.herbst@briefly.co.za.
Candice Lambert (Mental health advocate and director at Kids Dialogue) Candice Lambert, with a background in neuroscience coaching, psychology, and business strategy, is currently pursuing her Master’s in Neuropsychology. She leads the Wellness Dialogue Group, supporting families with the Teddy Clinic and Life Healthcare. She’s also involved with the NPO Healthy Future Kids and runs the World Changers Holiday Club for children. Candice has been a featured speaker on TV and radio, including 702 and Newzroom Afrika, and serves as a resident coach on INX Prime Live.