Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
TIKTOK content creator Dumisile Dube, popularly known as Malume uRuben or Demy, is winning over audiences by single-handedly bringing the typical African household to life.
Through comedy skits, he plays multiple characters himself, using different voices and editing effects to portray family members whose personalities mirror everyday African experiences.
His videos feature recurring characters such as Bamdala, Mamncane, Bamncane UK, Makhala and Ruben, each representing familiar figures found in many homes across the continent.
If you have ever attended a family gathering where one relative was whispered about as a “witch”, watched poor in-laws being looked down upon, or seen an absent father suddenly return when his child becomes successful, chances are you have lived the kind of stories Dube turns into comedy.
The Midlands State University graduate, whose TikTok account @yangdemy391 has amassed more than 11 000 followers, has carved out a niche by creating relatable family-centred skits that resonate with viewers across Zimbabwe.
“I always believed I had a unique talent that deserved to be seen. I wanted to introduce something different to Bulawayo and Zimbabwe by creating content that people thought was impossible to produce with limited resources,” he said.
What sets Dube apart is that he does not rely on a cast of actors. Instead, he performs every character himself, changing voices and personalities with the help of editing and visual effects.
“I am a voice actor, so every voice people hear belongs to me. I wanted to prove that with creativity, passion and determination, you can create something extraordinary even with limited resources,” he said.
His videos combine comedy, acting and storytelling, tackling everyday family situations that viewers instantly recognise. From relatives accused of witchcraft to complicated in-law relationships and awkward family gatherings, his skits have struck a chord with audiences.
Among his favourite productions is a series titled Imfihlo ka Mamncane, which attracted thousands of viewers because of its relatable storyline. Another favourite is a comedy sketch about uncles meeting their niece’s boyfriend for the first time.
“I enjoy telling stories that people can relate to. When people comment that my videos made them laugh or brightened their day, it motivates me to keep creating,” he said.
Despite his growing popularity, Dube believes his unique style has yet to receive the recognition it deserves.
“I introduced a different type of content that is still new to many people. I believe I should have more recognition than I have now, but I will continue working hard because success comes with consistency,” he said.
He also admitted that breaking into Bulawayo’s entertainment industry has not been easy.
“Bulawayo is not easy to impress when it comes to the arts. Sometimes local creatives are overlooked, but we will continue proving ourselves until we are recognised.”
Today, his family and friends fully support his journey. His older brother, Dumolwenkosi Dube, bought him recording equipment to improve the quality of his productions, while his best friend, Mthogenkosi Moyo, helps manage some aspects of his growing brand.
Looking ahead, Dube has ambitions beyond TikTok.
He hopes to venture into acting, filmmaking and content production while helping revive Bulawayo’s acting industry.
“I want people to earn a living from their talents and not do it just for fun. TikTok is only the beginning. My dream is to build a strong entertainment brand and, God willing, one day become Zimbabwe’s own Tyler Perry.”
Although many fans assume his stories are based on his own relatives, Dube said that is not the case.
“The stories don’t reflect my family’s lifestyle. They are simply a reflection of African families as a whole.”
