Claire Mawisa’s ‘aunty’ chat ignites generational gap debate

There have been mixed reactions to assertions made by seasoned broadcaster, Claire Mawisa, that she is at an age where she wants to be called ‘aunty’ as a form of respect.

Taking to social media, the TV current affairs show presenter spoke about how, back in the day, it was respectful to call older people by aunty, uncle, amongst others.

Her comments have now sparked a debate on how such a situation should be dealt with not just in social circles but also in the workplace.

 

Some young social media users looked at the matter from a work perspective, emphasising that they will call their colleagues by their names regardless of their age. Others, however, believe that there should be a level of respect and distinction between age groups.

 

Also looking at it from a work perspective, Diversity, Culture and Change consultant, Bongani Tshabalala, says an organisational culture should influence how to approach such a dilemma.

 

Tshabalala advises that all parties should be willing to compromise and meet their colleagues where they are.

 

The diversity expert is, however, quick to warn that there shouldn’t be a fixed rule on such preferences as that could polirise the work space.

Calling you by your name, regardless the age difference, doesn’t mean I disrespect or see you less of a person you think you are. These “titles” y’all think you are entitled to are really not necessary tbh, especially to black community

— Sbahle Dladla (@sbahlesonkezwen) April 15, 2025

Totally agree with this. The problem is when grown people cannot be corrected and a ‘professional’ environment is run like a household.

— Sifiso  (@SifisoHlope) April 11, 2025

Love this post . Thank you ❤️ agree with you 100%

— #TheBookOfChad (@NormaMansoor) April 12, 2025

Even at work. Nna ebile I refuse to address batho ba bantsho who are older than me ka lebitso skoon.

I may refer to them by their name, but not while I personally address them.
“Aus Claire” or “Mme Mawisa”, that’s the only way I’m calling them.
Ene that thing ga eng polaye

— Unkel T (@GreatWhyte23) April 15, 2025

lol why are people touched by Claire Mawisa’s video,

— #PortraitsByLorendzo (@Lorendzo) April 14, 2025

your name is Claire Mawisa as it appears on your ID, you shall be referred as Claire. o tla bitswa Auntie Claire ke ba ko geno joe https://t.co/BPLlP1rtvK

— smomothela🤍🧸🫧 (@mllwjaded) April 14, 2025

In my head nam I will not lie,when I see her, tha Claire Mawisa. Her and many who were on tv and introduced themselves by name. So THAT follows them no matter their age or status in life etc.
I don’t think ma2k mean it maliciously. Abo Zandi Nhlapho, Batsetsana Khumalo, Carol

— Zaza (@am_oceans) April 14, 2025

Eplazini lakho. In the corporate environment you are Ms Mawisa or Claire to everyone irrespective of age. Also ke ma-antiza, respect is a two way street and it not shown by what people call you but how you treat them and they reciprocate it.

Aunty Claire kwe yakho ifama nono😎 https://t.co/R0EYhmRrWp

— Mafuza 🇿🇦🇿🇦 (@siphokazimxinwa) April 14, 2025