More than 50 young people from Mayibuye, and nearby communities, have gone for over three months without payment, after working as extras for Lawadi Casting Agency, which they allege recruited them for the Mzansi Magic telenovela Genesis.

Genesis, which premiered in April 2025 on DStv channel 161, is a high-stakes drama set in the gospel music industry and airs weekdays at 19:30.

The residents said they were booked by the agency for filming dates on August 6, September 23, and September 27, with each extra promised R250 per shoot.

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Residents shared screenshots of booking messages, allegedly sent by the agency, including one that read: “Kindly find attached Genesis S1 call sheet and sides for shoot day 196, Wednesday, August 6, 2025.” Filming reportedly took place at two Glen Austin locations, but months later, the extras say they are still waiting to be paid.

Mayibuye resident Lusanda Mapundu, who worked as an extra, said she feels betrayed. “I was booked by an agency called Lawadi to shoot on Genesis. They haven’t paid us. It’s been three months. When we text them, they block us.

“It’s sad, because we borrowed money to go on set, hoping we would get paid and settle our debts. Some people are struggling to pay rent, and someone in our group was kicked out of where he was staying.”

Another unpaid extra, Favourite Mokonotela, said she is owed R750 for the three shoot days. “Since August, I have not received my payment. It’s almost four months now. I was booked by Khanyo [Nokukhanya Luthuli] and another lady – I think her name is Thandeka – both from Lawadi. Khanyo blocked me when I followed up.”

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A third resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said the financial impact has been devastating. “I couldn’t pay rent, and the landlord kicked me out. I borrowed money to get to the shoot, and now the people I borrowed from want their money.

As we speak, I don’t have a place to stay. A friend took me in for a few days… Now, it’s been months.”

In response, Sinini Mati executive manager at Genesis said, “All Lawadi invoices have been paid. Genesis doesn’t owe the agency anything.”

Midrand Reporter began reaching out to Nokukhanya Luthuli, of Lawadi Casting Agency, on November 10 for comment on the allegations. As of publication, the agency has not responded to calls or messages, despite follow-ups.

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