Fitness influencer and entrepreneur Sbahle Mpisane recently took to social media to share a funny memory from her younger days when she used to take public transport. She posted a humorous video of her brother, Andile Mpisane, asking a taxi driver for directions to McDonald’s in English. The driver, clearly unimpressed, insisted that Andile speak Zulu instead. The funny part? The driver likely understood English but was just annoyed that Andile was speaking it.
Alongside the video, Sbahle reflected on her own experiences with public taxis during her university days. She shared a hilarious story about how she used to enjoy sitting in the front seat—until it was time to count passengers’ fares.
“Whilst I was in varsity, I used to maneuver in a taxi. I enjoyed the comfort of sitting in the front seat until I was expected to count the money with a straight face. I’d ask the driver if my pretty face looked like it had a brain to count. It always worked, but most days were WORLD WAR III!”
She continued by reminiscing about her childhood and how her life has always felt like a comedy show.
“I really don’t know how I survived public fights in Lamontville throughout my entire primary school life until I relocated to the suburbs and attended a private school. Things turned SOUTH when I entered university. I began taking public taxis at Berea in Durban, which was a new and enjoyable experience. However, I got introduced to a wild social life, including alcohol and men. Honestly, I don’t know how I got a construction engineering degree or how I survived those streets without getting pregnant! It was a beautiful experience nonetheless, but aghhh never again!”
She ended her story by saying, “I know many can resonate and say, LIFE HAS BEEN A MOVIE!!! In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen!”
Her post had social media users laughing and sharing their own funny taxi experiences. One person commented, “Yeeeeeyi….. I remember being told to get off on the M1 highway for chewing gum and having my earphones on. Public taxis aren’t for the faint-hearted!”
Another added, “What’s funny is that when I am in KZN, I speak Sesotho with taxi drivers, and they always laugh and ask me all sorts of questions. So, it’s clear ba casulwa ke English!”
