South African actress Gcina Mkhize has received an outpouring of support from the public and her colleagues after a heartfelt video detailing her eviction crisis went viral. The actress shared her emotional struggle after her house was sold at an auction, a sale she is currently contesting, as she fights to retain her home.
In the widely circulated video, Mkhize explained her frustration and heartbreak over losing her home due to financial challenges. She has refused to vacate the property and is seeking legal assistance to dispute the legitimacy of the sale. Her plea struck a chord with many people, prompting a wave of public sympathy and support.
A crowdfunding campaign was set up on the BackaBuddy platform to assist Mkhize, and many individuals have also made direct donations to her personal bank account. Speaking to TimesLIVE, the actress expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support she has received. The donations, which have surpassed R20,000, have been a lifeline for Mkhize and her family.
“I would like to thank each and every person who has made a donation to our BackaBuddy campaign,” Mkhize said. “I would also like to thank those who have made deposits into my personal account. All the money is making a huge difference in our lives. My children and I are eternally grateful. We are deeply humbled by your kindness.”
In addition to financial support, Mkhize has also received food donations and offers of legal aid. Several of her industry colleagues have rallied around her, showing solidarity and providing both moral and financial support. Mkhize specifically mentioned Eugene Mthethwa and a member of the ANC who have stepped in to assist with the investigation into the legality of the auction.
“Colleagues in the industry have reached out, others have donated money. Asavela Mngqithi, who I worked with in *Isibaya*, was one of the first people to reach out when the story went viral and made a donation of R2,000,” Mkhize shared. She went on to list a number of other industry friends who have offered their support, including Celeste Ntuli, Nomzamo Mbatha, Puleng Ndlovu, Retha M, Angie Sekgobane, Khanyi Tshabalala, Nomonde Mbusi, Muzi Mthabela, Khanyo Maphumulo, and Bongani Gumede.
Despite the outpouring of support, Mkhize’s situation remains precarious. She has opened a case of intimidation, harassment, and trespassing against the new owner of her home and insists she will not leave the property until a court order forces her to do so. “I want to have my house back. My children and I want to live our lives the way we used to,” she said.
Unfortunately, the public attention has also attracted scammers looking to exploit her vulnerable situation. Mkhize recounted an incident where she was approached by someone claiming to be the son of well-known producer Duma Ndlovu, offering her an acting gig. The scammer requested that she book and pay for her own flight to Durban, promising reimbursement upon arrival.
“I thought it was legit and I was excited. I called the travel agent to find out more information until they asked me to send money through cash send [cardless service],” she explained. Mkhize, however, grew suspicious and verified with someone close to Duma Ndlovu that the offer was a scam. “I never sent the money. A production company would never ask artists to pay for their flight; they cover that.”
The experience has left Mkhize more cautious, but she remains hopeful as she continues to fight for her home and work towards rebuilding her life. The support she has received from the public and her peers has been a source of strength during this challenging time.