Why Jackie Phamotse says Slay Queens is a must-watch

Slay Queens, a five-part documentary series following women determined to live the soft life by any means necessary, is now available to binge on Showmax.

Produced by Kaimal Pictures, Slay Queens has become one of the most talked-about shows on social media, standing at the centre of Mzansi’s blesser-and-blessee culture conversation.

Watch the trailer for Slay Queens

The documentary features slay queens and ballers telling their stories in their own words, alongside some of the most recognisable voices shaping this controversial lifestyle. The cast includes DJ and influencer Cyan Boujee, multi-award-winning amapiano star Mr JazziQ, author and media personality Jackie Phamotse, and anthropologist Lebohang Masango.

We caught up with Jackie, who shared the tea on her role in the documentary, her experiences and more.

Why did you decide to take part in the documentary?

I believe it’s crucial to shed light on the complexities of the slay queen phenomenon. We have to keep trying to show the youth the realities of their decisions. This is also a national tragedy; parents need to recognise the role that abuse and neglect play in shaping their children’s lives. This is a social issue that affects every member of society.

As someone who has been speaking about this topic for years, I wanted to contribute to a nuanced conversation that explores the intersections of poverty, patriarchy, and social media pressure. I’ve written about it for many years, and my work also involves collaborating with various universities and schools to educate young people about the risks and dangers of this phenomenon, including exposure to human trafficking, rape, kidnapping, and drug smuggling. Real crimes are committed within this lifestyle.

Beyond that, there are major opportunity costs that come with living recklessly. Many young people don’t finish school and abandon their families to pursue a life that ultimately has no practical purpose. I always try to find creative ways to continue educating and raising awareness beyond books. Many people don’t read, but they watch a lot of TV and this show is perfect for our intentions.

What are you hoping viewers learn from this documentary?

I hope they gain a deeper understanding of slay queen culture beyond surface-level judgments. I want them to see the intricate web of factors that drive young women into transactional relationships and the consequences that follow. Ultimately, I hope the documentary sparks empathy and encourages viewers to think critically about the societal structures that enable this phenomenon.

What are some of the dark sides of this lifestyle?

The dark sides are multifaceted. There’s the risk of exploitation, emotional manipulation, and physical harm. Many young women in these relationships are trapped in cycles of abuse, and the power dynamics are often severely imbalanced. This lifestyle can also lead to long-term emotional and psychological damage, including low self-esteem and difficulty forming healthy relationships. Sadly, many lose their lives or everything they’ve worked for. It’s extremely difficult to go back to school after spending years chasing material possessions and alcohol.

Do you think society glamorises the slay queen lifestyle?

Unfortunately, yes. Society often glamorises the material benefits and perceived status associated with being a “slay queen.” Social media platforms amplify this by showcasing lavish lifestyles without revealing the exploitative relationships behind them. This creates a toxic environment where young women feel pressured to conform to unrealistic and dangerous standards.

How can society create systems that deter women from falling victim to this lifestyle?

Society needs to address the root causes: poverty, lack of economic opportunities, and patriarchal norms. We must invest in education, economic empowerment programmes, and mental health support. We also need to challenge and redefine what success and self-worth look like for women, moving beyond materialism and external validation. Lastly, we must hold perpetrators accountable and provide safe spaces for survivors to share their stories.

Who should watch the documentary?

Anyone interested in understanding the complexities of gender, poverty, and social media dynamics should watch this documentary. It’s especially relevant for young people, educators, policymakers, and anyone who wants to engage in meaningful conversations about these issues.

Which factor has the greatest influence on “slay queen” culture?

I believe poverty is the greatest influencing factor. Economic desperation often drives young women into these relationships, and without addressing poverty, it’s difficult to dismantle the structures that sustain this culture. That said, patriarchy and social media pressure exacerbate the issue, making it a complex web of interconnected factors.

Did you anticipate the massive reaction to your book series BARE?

No, I didn’t anticipate the scale of the reaction. While I knew the topic was sensitive, I mainly hoped my work would spark important conversations. More than anything, I was simply sharing my own experiences, honestly and vulnerably, and that honesty resonated deeply with readers. BARE has become the biggest book series in the country.

I’m extremely grateful for the strength it gave me; it shaped my entire career. My life is a dedication to the youth of Africa. I love my country deeply and share the pain of the many young people who have experienced this brutal phenomenon. I know what it feels like to be trapped and hopelessly broken. The intensity of the response, both positive and negative, showed me how deeply these issues resonate. It’s my life’s mission to create work that has an impact far beyond my lifetime, and this is it.

How has speaking on this topic changed your life?

Speaking out has been both liberating and challenging. It has allowed me to connect with others who share my concerns and given me a platform to amplify important issues. But it has also exposed me to backlash and criticism. Despite this, I believe this work is vital, and I remain deeply committed to continuing the conversation. My advocacy will take many forms, and this show is a brilliant next step..