Category: Hustle Smarter: Ideas & Tips That Work in South Africa

Looking to boost your income, launch a side hustle, or level up your grind? You’re in the right place.

Hustle Ideas and Tips is your go-to space for real, practical advice that helps South Africans make money — whether you’re freelancing after hours, running your small business, or just getting started with your first gig.

How to Start a Dropshipping Business in South Africa

Posted on by David Johnson

Do you want to start a business but don’t have a lot of money or space to store products? Dropshipping could be your answer. It’s one of the easiest and most affordable ways to make money online in South Africa, even if you’re just starting out.

In this beginner-friendly guide, you’ll learn what dropshipping is, how it works, and how to start your own dropshipping business from South Africa—step by step.

What Is Dropshipping?

Dropshipping is a type of e-commerce where you sell products online without keeping any stock. When someone buys from your online store, the order is sent to a supplier, who then ships the product directly to your customer.

You make money by setting a higher price than what the supplier charges you.

Example:

  • A supplier sells a watch for R100.

  • You list it on your store for R200.

  • When someone buys, the supplier ships it to the customer, and you keep R100 profit.

Why Dropshipping Is a Good Business in South Africa

✅ Low startup cost: No need to buy stock upfront.

✅ Work from anywhere: All you need is a laptop and internet.

✅ No storage needed: Suppliers hold and ship the stock for you.

✅ Global or local options: You can target buyers in SA or around the world.

Step 1: Choose a Niche

A niche is a specific category of products. Choosing the right one is key to success.

Popular dropshipping niches in South Africa:

  • Beauty products (skincare, hair tools)

  • Fashion (accessories, handbags, streetwear)

  • Fitness gear (yoga mats, resistance bands)

  • Tech gadgets (Bluetooth speakers, chargers)

  • Home décor (LED lights, minimalist items)

  • Pet products

Tip: Pick something you’re interested in or familiar with. That makes marketing easier.

Step 2: Do Market Research

Before you start, check if people are actually interested in your niche.

Tools for research:

Look for products that:

  • Solve a problem

  • Are not easily available in local stores

  • Are lightweight and easy to ship

Step 3: Find a Reliable Supplier

Your supplier is the one who will pack and ship your products—so they must be trustworthy.

Options for South Africans:

🛍️ International:

  • AliExpress (China)

  • Spocket (EU/US)

  • CJ Dropshipping

  • Zendrop

These work well but may have longer shipping times unless you pay more.

🇿🇦 Local Suppliers:

  • Bidorbuy Dropshipping

  • Dropstore.co.za

  • Zasttra

  • BrandsGateway (Fashion)

Local suppliers offer faster delivery (1–5 days), which improves customer experience.

Step 4: Set Up Your Online Store

You’ll need an e-commerce website where people can buy your products.

Best platforms for dropshipping:

  • Shopify (Paid, easy to use, has many dropshipping apps)

  • Woocommerce + WordPress (Free but needs some setup knowledge)

  • Wix (User-friendly)

  • Dropstore (SA-based with built-in suppliers)

What to include on your site:

  • Product pages with photos, descriptions, and pricing

  • “About Us” and “Contact” pages

  • Shipping and refund policies

  • WhatsApp chat support (optional)

Tip: Use tools like Canva to design banners and product mockups.

Step 5: Add Products and Set Prices

Use your chosen platform to add items to your store. Write clear product descriptions that include:

  • Features and benefits

  • Sizes or specs

  • Delivery time

  • Price (include your markup)

Example markup strategy:

  • Cost from supplier: R100

  • Your price: R200–R250 (includes profit + marketing budget)

Make sure prices are competitive but still profitable.

Step 6: Set Up Payment and Delivery Options

To get paid, you need to connect your store to a payment gateway.

South African payment options:

  • PayFast

  • Yoco

  • Peach Payments

  • Ozow (EFT)

For local delivery, your supplier handles shipping. Just make sure you know:

  • Their shipping time (3–15 days)

  • Their return/refund policies

Tip: Inform customers about delivery times clearly to manage expectations.

Step 7: Launch and Start Marketing

Now that your store is ready, it’s time to bring in customers.

Free Marketing Methods:

  • Share your store on WhatsApp statuses and groups

  • Post on Facebook Marketplace

  • Create TikTok videos showing your products in action

  • Start an Instagram page and use hashtags like #SouthAfricanOnlineStore

Paid Marketing:

  • Facebook Ads (target South Africans by age, location, interest)

  • Google Shopping Ads

  • Influencer marketing (work with micro-influencers)

Bonus tip: Offer discounts or limited-time deals to attract first customers.

Step 8: Manage Orders and Customer Service

When someone buys:

  1. You receive the payment.

  2. You place the order with your supplier and pay their cost.

  3. The supplier ships the item to your customer.

  4. You notify your customer with a tracking link or delivery date.

Always respond quickly to customer questions and solve any issues (like delayed delivery or faulty items).

Step 9: Track Your Growth

Use tools like Google Analytics or your platform dashboard to track:

  • Traffic (visitors to your site)

  • Sales and profits

  • Most popular products

  • Where your customers come from

Use this info to make better marketing and pricing decisions.

Step 10: Scale Your Business

Once you’ve had some success, scale up by:

  • Adding more products to your store

  • Running more ads

  • Hiring someone to help with support

  • Launching niche stores (e.g., one store for fitness, one for tech)

You can also create a YouTube channel or TikTok account to promote your store organically.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Choosing a niche with no demand
🚫 Working with unreliable suppliers
🚫 Ignoring customer messages
🚫 Selling without clear delivery info
🚫 Overpricing or underpricing your products

Final Thoughts

Dropshipping in South Africa is one of the best side hustles or full-time businesses you can start in 2025. It doesn’t need a lot of money upfront, and it gives you the chance to make a profit from anywhere.

Success comes from:

  • Picking the right products

  • Working with the right suppliers

  • Marketing smartly and consistently

  • Delivering great customer service

So, if you’ve been thinking, “How can I make money online in South Africa?”—dropshipping might just be your perfect starting point.

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How to Start a YouTube Channel and Make Money in South Africa (2025 Guide)

Posted on by David Johnson

With internet access improving across South Africa, many people are turning to YouTube as a way to share their passions and earn money. Whether you’re in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, or a rural area with decent data coverage, starting a YouTube channel can be a real opportunity for income.

This step-by-step guide will help you understand how to start a YouTube channel in South Africa, grow your audience, and make money from your content.

Why YouTube is a Great Hustle in South Africa

  • Free to start: You don’t need capital—just a phone with a camera and internet access.

  • Huge local audience: Millions of South Africans use YouTube every day.

  • Monetization options: You can make money in several ways beyond ads.

Step 1: Pick a Niche

Choosing a niche (a topic or theme) helps your channel grow faster. Focus on something you’re passionate about or skilled in. Examples for South Africans:

  • Beauty & Haircare (natural hair, wigs, braids)

  • Comedy skits or reaction videos

  • Tutorials or How-to content

  • Vlogs about township life or student life

  • Product reviews (especially local products)

  • Education (Matric revision, University tips)

  • Food and cooking (local recipes)

  • Travel and lifestyle in SA

Pick a niche that you can consistently create content about.

Step 2: Create a Google Account

You need a Google account to start a YouTube channel.

  1. Go to youtube.com

  2. Click “Sign In” (top right corner).

  3. Use your Gmail or create a new one.

  4. After signing in, click your profile icon and select “Create a Channel”.

Give your channel a name that’s easy to remember and represents your niche. You can use your real name or something catchy like “Mzansi Eats” or “SA Study Hacks”.

Step 3: Plan Your Content

Use the 3P strategy:

  • Plan: Decide on video ideas and create a simple upload schedule (1 or 2 videos per week).

  • Produce: Use your smartphone or a basic camera. Natural light helps if you don’t have fancy equipment.

  • Post: Upload consistently to build trust with your audience.

Tip: Your first videos won’t be perfect—just start! You’ll improve with time.

Step 4: Film and Edit Your Videos

You don’t need expensive gear.

Tools to get started:

  • Smartphone (1080p resolution is good)

  • Editing apps: CapCut, InShot (mobile), DaVinci Resolve (desktop – free)

Tips:

  • Use a tripod or stack books to stabilize your phone.

  • Record in a quiet room.

  • Make sure your audio is clear (use cheap clip-on mics if needed).

  • Keep your videos short and engaging at first (under 10 mins).

Step 5: Create Eye-Catching Thumbnails and Titles

Your thumbnail is the first thing viewers notice. Make it stand out with:

  • Bright colors

  • Big text

  • Clear images of your face or topic

Use Canva (free tool) to design thumbnails.

Titles should include relevant keywords for SEO. Example:

  • “How to Pass Matric with Distinctions – Tips from a Top Student”

  • “Affordable Grocery Haul – South African Student Budget”

Step 6: Upload and Optimize for SEO

To help people find your videos:

  1. Use keywords in the title and description.

    • Example: “make money on YouTube South Africa” or “natural hair tutorial SA”

  2. Add tags related to your content.

  3. Write a detailed description with helpful info and your social media links.

Also, add subtitles or captions when possible (YouTube can auto-generate them).

Step 7: Promote Your Channel

Don’t wait for YouTube to find your audience—go out and get them!

Ways to promote:

  • Share links in WhatsApp groups and statuses.

  • Post clips on TikTok or Instagram Reels.

  • Join Facebook groups (e.g., “South African YouTubers” or “Mzansi Creators”).

  • Comment on other South African channels and leave helpful insights (not spam).

Ask your friends and family to subscribe, like, and share.

Step 8: Apply for YouTube Monetization

To make money with ads, you must join the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). Here’s what you need:

  • 1,000 subscribers

  • 4,000 watch hours in the last 12 months or 10 million Shorts views in 90 days

  • Google AdSense account (free)

Once approved, you can earn from:

  • Ad revenue

  • YouTube Premium views

  • Channel memberships

  • Super Chats & Stickers (during live videos)

Step 9: Explore Other Income Streams

YouTube ads aren’t the only way to earn.

Other ways to make money on YouTube in South Africa:

  1. Affiliate Marketing
    Promote products and earn commission from links (e.g., Takealot Affiliate, Amazon Global Store).

  2. Brand Deals
    Local brands may pay you to mention or review their products once you grow.

  3. Merchandise
    Sell your own t-shirts, ebooks, or digital templates via WhatsApp or platforms like Gumroad.

  4. Paid Services
    Offer your skills like video editing, voice-overs, or consulting (e.g., “How to start a YouTube channel” service).

Step 10: Track Your Growth and Improve

Use YouTube Studio to:

  • Monitor views and subscriber growth

  • See which videos perform best

  • Read and reply to comments

  • Check watch time and audience retention

Improve what works and drop what doesn’t. Always ask for feedback from your viewers.

Important Tips for South African Creators

  • Data saving: Upload in places with free Wi-Fi or off-peak hours if your data is limited.

  • Language options: Mix English with local languages like isiZulu, Sesotho, or Xhosa to reach different groups.

  • Be authentic: Mzansi loves real content—be yourself!

  • Keep learning: Watch free YouTube tutorials on video editing, thumbnails, and growing your channel.

Final Thoughts

Starting a YouTube channel in South Africa is one of the easiest and most powerful hustles if you’re consistent and patient. You don’t need to be rich or famous to succeed—you just need your phone, creativity, and the willingness to learn.

Remember:

  • Stay consistent

  • Engage with your audience

  • Keep improving your quality

  • Don’t give up—success takes time!

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How to Sell on Takealot from South Africa 2025 Guide

Posted on by David Johnson

If you’re looking to start an online business in South Africa, Takealot is one of the best platforms to sell your products. With over a million daily visitors, Takealot gives sellers access to a massive customer base—without needing your own eCommerce website.

In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll explain exactly how to sell on Takealot, the pros and cons, the sign-up process, and tips for growing your sales in 2025.

What is Takealot?

Takealot.com is South Africa’s largest online retailer. It sells everything from electronics and books to clothing, baby products, and household goods.

Takealot allows third-party sellers (like you) to list and sell products through their Takealot Marketplace. As a seller, you’ll benefit from:

  • Takealot’s brand trust

  • Logistics and delivery through their warehouse system

  • Payment processing and customer support

  • Easy access to buyers all over South Africa

Step-by-Step: How to Start Selling on Takealot

1. Register as a Takealot Seller

To get started, go to Takealot Seller Portal and sign up.

You’ll need the following:

  • A registered business (Pty Ltd or sole proprietor)

  • A valid South African ID or business documents

  • A VAT number (optional but useful for tax purposes)

  • A South African bank account

  • Proof of address

Fill in the required details and wait for approval. This usually takes a few days.

2. Understand Takealot’s Business Models

Takealot offers two main ways to sell:

a) Marketplace Model

You list your products, set your own prices, and store your stock in Takealot’s warehouse. Takealot handles delivery and returns.

b) Third-Party Fulfillment (Drop Ship)

You keep your own inventory and fulfill orders when they come in.

For beginners, the Marketplace model is recommended because Takealot handles logistics.

3. List Your Products

Once your account is approved, you can start uploading products using the Seller Portal.

Important things to include:

  • Product name (with keywords for SEO)

  • Detailed description

  • High-quality images (white background is best)

  • Price

  • SKU (product ID)

  • Product weight and dimensions

SEO Tips for listings:

  • Include keywords like “wireless headphones South Africa”

  • Use local spellings (e.g., colour instead of color)

  • Mention benefits (e.g., “ideal for school use”, “fits all phone models”)

4. Send Stock to Takealot (FSP Only)

If you’re using the Fulfilled by Takealot (FSP) option, you’ll need to send your stock to their warehouse.

Steps:

  • Go to “Stock In” tab in the Seller Portal

  • Book a delivery time

  • Print and attach the right barcodes

  • Deliver your stock to the nearest Takealot warehouse (Cape Town or Johannesburg)

Once Takealot receives and checks your products, they’ll go live on the site.

5. Manage Orders and Sales

As orders come in, Takealot handles:

  • Payment collection

  • Customer queries

  • Delivery and returns

You can track sales and performance via the Seller Dashboard. You’ll also receive weekly payouts to your bank account.

Fees and Commissions

Takealot charges a success fee for each sale. This varies by category (usually between 5% and 15%).

You’ll also pay:

  • R450 monthly seller fee (as of 2025)

  • Optional storage fees (if using their warehouse)

  • Return handling fees (for damaged goods)

Make sure to calculate these costs when setting your prices.

Best Products to Sell on Takealot

Popular and profitable categories in South Africa include:

  • Cell phone accessories

  • Kitchen gadgets

  • Baby products

  • Health & fitness gear

  • Home cleaning tools

  • Beauty and skincare

Tip: Use Takealot’s search bar and check “Best Sellers” to research what’s trending.

How to Market Your Products

While Takealot brings organic traffic, you can drive more sales with smart marketing:

1. Use Social Media

Promote your listings on:

  • Facebook Marketplace

  • TikTok (demo your products)

  • Instagram Reels

  • WhatsApp groups or status

Add a direct link to your Takealot product page.

2. Offer Discounts

Run short-term sales or bundle deals to attract more buyers.

3. Get Reviews

Ask your first few customers to leave honest reviews. Products with reviews perform better.

Tips for Takealot Success

  • Stay in stock: Avoid “out of stock” penalties.

  • Use high-res photos: Clear images sell better.

  • Respond quickly: Keep an eye on order issues or flagged products.

  • Price smartly: Don’t undercut too much; focus on product quality and delivery reliability.

  • Study your dashboard: Learn what sells best and adjust your inventory accordingly.

Challenges to Be Aware Of

  • Competition: Takealot is crowded, so choose a niche or unique product.

  • Returns: If your product has defects or false info, returns can cost you.

  • Fees: Always factor in all the commission and handling costs.

  • Delays: Sometimes warehouse check-ins take time, especially during sales seasons.

FAQs About Selling on Takealot

Q: Do I need to be a registered business?

Yes. Takealot requires you to have a legal business entity or sole proprietor registration.

Q: How do I get paid?

Takealot pays weekly via EFT to your linked South African bank account.

Q: What if my product doesn’t sell?

Try changing the title, photos, or pricing. Also check for negative reviews or low visibility.

Q: Can I sell imported items?

Yes, as long as they meet safety standards and you’re legally allowed to import them.

Conclusion: Is Selling on Takealot Worth It?

Absolutely. Selling on Takealot is a powerful way for South Africans to build an online business with national reach. While it requires setup effort, understanding the platform and selling good products can lead to excellent long-term income.

Whether you’re starting a side hustle, launching a brand, or scaling an existing business—Takealot offers a trusted system to help you grow in 2025.

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How to Make Money on TikTok in South Africa (2025 Guide)

Posted on by David Johnson

Are you looking for a fun and easy way to make money online in South Africa? TikTok is no longer just a platform for dancing and lip-syncing — it’s now one of the best places to earn income using only your phone and creativity.

In this guide, we’ll explain how South Africans can make money on TikTok, even without a huge following. Whether you’re a student, content creator, or side hustler, there are real ways to earn from your videos.

1. Become a TikTok Content Creator

The first step to making money on TikTok is creating content that people love. Pick a niche that suits you. It could be:

  • Comedy skits

  • Educational videos (math tips, finance, health)

  • Fashion and makeup

  • Fitness or home workouts

  • Food recipes

  • Lifestyle vlogs

You don’t need expensive equipment — just your phone, good lighting, and consistency.

Tips to grow your audience:

  • Post 1–2 times per day

  • Use trending sounds and hashtags

  • Engage with your viewers in the comments

  • Follow and collaborate with other South African creators

Once you reach around 10,000 followers and 100,000 views in the last 30 days, you can unlock monetization options.

2. Join the TikTok Creator Fund (Not yet in South Africa)

As of now, TikTok’s Creator Fund is not officially available in South Africa. However, TikTok is expanding in Africa, and we expect this program to launch soon.

When it becomes available, TikTok will pay you for your views, video watch time, and engagement.

Alternative tip: Many creators open accounts in countries like the US or UK (using a VPN and banking platforms like Payoneer) to qualify for the fund — but this is risky and not recommended unless you fully understand the legal and tax issues.

3. Work with Brands (Brand Deals and Sponsorships)

Once your TikTok videos start getting consistent views (around 5,000 to 50,000+ per post), brands will start noticing you.

South African brands are now working with micro-influencers to promote:

  • Fashion and beauty products

  • Tech gadgets

  • Food and drinks

  • Events and experiences

How to get brand deals:

  • Add your contact email to your TikTok bio

  • Post your stats and engagement on Instagram and LinkedIn

  • Register with influencer platforms like Webfluential, Humanz, or Brandbook

Brands will either pay you a once-off fee or offer free products in exchange for promoting them on your TikTok account.

4. Promote Affiliate Products

Affiliate marketing is a great way to earn passive income on TikTok. You recommend a product or service using your unique link. When someone buys through your link, you get paid a commission.

South African affiliate programs:

  • Takealot Affiliates

  • Loot.co.za

  • Travelstart

  • Amazon Global Store

  • ClickBank (for international products)

How to do it:

  • Create TikToks that review or demo the product

  • Put the affiliate link in your bio or direct users to your Linktree

  • Mention “link in bio” at the end of each video

This method works especially well if you create “Top 5 gadgets” or “Product hacks” style videos.

5. Sell Your Own Products or Services

TikTok is also a powerful platform for small business owners and freelancers in South Africa.

You can use your account to sell:

  • Handmade items (jewelry, fashion, crafts)

  • Digital products (CV templates, ebooks, courses)

  • Services (tutoring, design, photography, makeup)

How to sell on TikTok:

  • Use trending sounds with product demos

  • Add your WhatsApp or online store link in your bio

  • Respond quickly to customer DMs and comments

If your videos go viral, you can sell out your stock within hours!

6. Offer Paid Promotions (Shoutouts)

Once you build a good following, smaller creators may pay you to promote their pages or videos. This is called a “shoutout”.

Shoutouts usually range from R50 to R1000 depending on your views and followers. You can sell these through:

  • WhatsApp

  • Email

  • Websites like Shoutcart or Collabstr

Tip: Make sure to disclose “paid promotion” so you follow TikTok’s rules.

7. Go Live and Receive Gifts

TikTok lets creators go LIVE and receive virtual gifts (which can be converted to money) from viewers.

To go live, you must have:

  • At least 1000 followers

  • Be 18 years or older

Tips for going live:

  • Do Q&A sessions

  • Share behind-the-scenes content

  • Offer tips in your niche (e.g., study tips, fitness advice)

Fans who enjoy your content will send you Diamonds or Coins, which you can withdraw using PayPal.

8. Cross-Promote to YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels

Don’t let your content live only on TikTok. Reuse your videos to earn on other platforms.

  • YouTube Shorts can monetize your content through the YouTube Partner Program

  • Instagram Reels attract local brand deals

  • You can also drive traffic to your blog or online store

This multiplies your earning potential using the same content.

9. Use TikTok for Business

If you own a business, TikTok is a powerful marketing tool — and that saves you ad spend.

Use your TikTok to:

  • Show how your product works

  • Share testimonials

  • Answer customer questions

  • Post “behind-the-scenes” stories

This builds trust, attracts followers, and boosts sales.

Final Thoughts: Start Now and Stay Consistent

You don’t need millions of followers to make money on TikTok in South Africa. Even with 1000 loyal followers, you can earn a decent income through smart content, consistency, and basic business skills.

Whether you want to promote affiliate links, sell a product, or work with brands, TikTok offers endless money-making opportunities.

Start creating today, stay consistent, and watch your account grow.

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Easy hustles to start with no money in South Africa

Posted on by David Johnson

Are you looking for practical ways to make money in South Africa without having any startup capital? Whether you’re a student, unemployed, or simply looking to supplement your income, there are many hustles that require zero upfront investment—just your time, skills, and determination.

In this guide, we’ll cover 10 easy hustles you can start with no money in South Africa, complete with tips to get started and how to grow each into a sustainable income stream.

1. Online Tutoring

If you excel in a subject like Maths, English, or Physical Science, online tutoring is a great hustle that pays well and requires no financial investment. Platforms like Teach Me 2, Preply, and Superprof allow South Africans to sign up as tutors.

How to start:

  • Create a free profile on tutoring platforms.

  • Highlight your strengths, matric marks, or university qualifications.

  • Use Zoom or Google Meet for virtual lessons.

2. Freelance Writing

Content is king in today’s digital world, and freelance writing is a hustle that only requires good grammar, a laptop, and internet access.

Platforms to get started:

  • Upwork

  • Fiverr

  • Freelancer

  • Local Facebook groups like “Freelance South Africa”

Niche suggestions:

  • Blog writing

  • Product descriptions

  • SEO content

Make sure your profile and gigs contain keywords such as “affordable South African content writer” or “SEO blog writing SA”.

3. Social Media Management

Many small businesses in South Africa need help running their Instagram or Facebook pages but can’t afford agencies. If you understand how to post consistently, use hashtags, and engage followers, this is a great zero-capital hustle.

Start by:

  • Managing accounts for friends or family businesses.

  • Creating a simple portfolio using Canva.

  • Promoting your services on LinkedIn or WhatsApp groups.

4. Delivery Service (Bicycle or Walking)

In townships and urban areas, many people need food or groceries delivered. If you own a bicycle or are comfortable walking, offer local delivery services for a small fee.

Ideas:

  • Partner with local shops or spaza stores.

  • Offer WhatsApp ordering for elders or busy professionals.

This hustle works well in communities where big delivery apps aren’t available.

5. Gardening and Yard Cleaning

You don’t need money to offer to mow lawns, trim hedges, or clean up yards. Many South African homeowners would gladly pay for affordable help.

To get started:

  • Offer free trials in your neighborhood.

  • Ask for referrals and testimonials.

  • Create a Facebook post advertising your services.

Keywords to use for SEO: “Affordable garden service in Soweto”, “lawn care Pretoria”, “cheap garden cleanup Cape Town”.

6. Selling Digital Products

If you’re good with design, Canva, or Microsoft Word, create simple digital products like CV templates, planners, or educational worksheets and sell them on:

  • Gumroad

  • Etsy

  • Facebook Marketplace

You can promote your store on TikTok, Instagram, or WhatsApp status. All you need is data and creativity.

7. WhatsApp Business Reselling

Reselling products via WhatsApp is a powerful and free method to make money. Find suppliers for:

  • Clothing

  • Hair products

  • Shoes

  • Gadgets

Ask for images and prices, then advertise in WhatsApp groups and statuses. Only place the order once you have payment. This eliminates the need for inventory.

8. Affiliate Marketing

Many South African brands and platforms offer affiliate programs where you earn commission for every sale made through your unique link.

Top SA affiliate programs:

  • Takealot Affiliates

  • Loot.co.za

  • Travelstart

  • Amazon Global Store

Start by writing simple product reviews on a free blog or social media and include your referral links.

9. Voice Over Work

If you have a good voice, you can earn by doing voice-overs for YouTube channels, adverts, or online courses.

Free tools to use:

  • Audacity (free audio editor)

  • Voicemeeter (sound enhancement)

Platforms like Voices.com, Fiverr, and even South African radio stations sometimes list voice casting opportunities.

10. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

Pet sitting is growing in urban areas like Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town. Many people travel and need someone trustworthy to look after their pets.

How to start:

  • Offer your services in local community groups.

  • Use apps like PetBacker or Pawshake.

  • Ask clients for reviews and word-of-mouth referrals.

This hustle requires no money and helps build long-term trust in your community.

Bonus Tips for Hustling with No Money

  1. Leverage free digital tools: Use Canva, Google Docs, and CapCut to create quality work.

  2. Build a strong WhatsApp and social media presence: Post updates about your hustle daily.

  3. Ask for reviews: Social proof makes it easier to attract new clients.

  4. Stay consistent: The first few weeks may be slow, but consistency builds trust and income.

Final Thoughts

There are countless easy hustles in South Africa that don’t require any upfront investment. What they do require is initiative, consistency, and the willingness to learn. Whether you choose to tutor online, write, deliver goods, or sell digital products, the opportunities are real and accessible.

If you’ve been wondering how to make money in South Africa without a job or capital—this is your starting point. Choose a hustle that aligns with your skills, start today, and watch it grow.

FAQs

Q: What is the best hustle for students in South Africa?
A: Online tutoring and freelance writing are perfect for students, especially if you’re already strong in academics or language.

Q: Can I start a business without money in South Africa?
A: Yes. Many hustles like reselling, gardening, and social media management require no capital.

Q: How can I promote my hustle for free?
A: Use Facebook Marketplace, WhatsApp groups, and TikTok to advertise your services at no cost.

Related Posts

How to Make Money Online in South Africa (2025 Guide)

10 Smart Tips for Young Entrepreneurs in South Africa (2025 Guide)

How to Make Money Online in South Africa (2025 Guide)

Posted on by David Johnson

In 2025, South Africans are more connected than ever before, and making money online has become a real and sustainable way to earn an income — whether part-time, full-time, or just as a side hustle. With high unemployment rates and the rising cost of living, more Mzansi residents are turning to the internet to hustle, build businesses, and create multiple income streams.

In this guide, we’ll break down legit ways to make money online in South Africa, what platforms are most popular, and how you can start earning with just a smartphone and an internet connection.

Why Make Money Online in South Africa?

South Africa faces a unique economic landscape. With load shedding, rising fuel prices, and youth unemployment over 40%, many people are searching for flexible and low-cost ways to make money. The internet offers:

  • Low startup costs

  • Flexible working hours

  • Access to a global market

  • Multiple monetization opportunities

Whether you live in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, or a township like Soweto or Khayelitsha — the online world has opened new doors for South Africans to earn.

1. Freelancing: Sell Your Skills Online

One of the fastest ways to start making money online is through freelancing. If you have skills like writing, graphic design, coding, or digital marketing, you can offer your services to international clients.

Best Freelancing Platforms for South Africans:

  • Fiverr – Perfect for creative services like design, voice-over, and writing.

  • Upwork – Offers a wide range of job categories.

  • PeoplePerHour – Great for short-term gigs.

  • Freelancer.com – Popular for remote jobs in various fields.

💡 Tip: Set up a strong profile, create sample work, and offer competitive prices at the beginning to build your reputation.

2. Online Tutoring & Teaching

If you’re fluent in English or have a background in math, science, or coding, you can earn money by teaching online. With South Africa being in the same time zone as much of Europe, it’s ideal for tutoring students overseas.

Platforms to Get Started:

  • Preply – Teach English or other subjects.

  • Cambly – Get paid to speak English with students globally.

  • Teach Me 2 – A local South African tutoring platform.

Tutors can earn between R150 to R500 per hour, depending on experience.

3. Start a YouTube Channel

YouTube is more than just a place to watch videos — it’s a serious money-making tool. In South Africa, YouTube pays creators through AdSense, sponsorship’s, and affiliate links.

What You Need:

  • A niche (e.g., vlogs, finance, beauty, tech, kasi lifestyle)

  • A smartphone or camera

  • Consistent uploads

Popular South African YouTubers like Mpoomy Ledwaba, Lasizwe, and The Microwave Boys have turned content creation into a full-time income.

💰 Creators earn about R15 to R50 per 1,000 views, plus extra from brand deals.

4. Sell Products Online

You don’t need a physical store to start a business. In fact, many people in South Africa are making thousands selling products on:

  • Facebook Marketplace

  • WhatsApp Business

  • Takealot (SA’s Amazon)

  • Shopify or Gumroad (for digital products)

Popular items include:

  • Phone accessories

  • Hair products

  • Fashion items

  • Homemade food (e.g., kotas, baked goods)

  • E-books, Canva templates, and courses

💡 Pro Tip: Use TikTok and Instagram Reels to market your products for free.

5. Affiliate Marketing

This is a passive income model where you earn a commission by promoting someone else’s product or service online.

Affiliate Programs Available in South Africa:

Share your unique affiliate link on your blog, TikTok, or YouTube. Every time someone buys via your link, you earn money.

6. Become a Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistants (VAs) help small businesses or entrepreneurs manage tasks like emails, calendar bookings, social media, or customer service.

In South Africa, VAs are in high demand — especially by overseas clients looking for cost-effective but skilled remote workers.

You can start with:

  • LinkedIn

  • Facebook VA groups

  • Remote job boards like We Work Remotely or Remote OK

💰 Entry-level VAs earn R5,000 – R15,000 per month, depending on hours and tasks.

7. Participate in Online Surveys & Market Research

While this won’t make you rich, online surveys can bring in a bit of extra cash or vouchers.

Legit Survey Sites in South Africa:

  • Toluna

  • ySense

  • SurveySavvy

  • Mobrog

  • TGM Panel

Expect to earn R5–R50 per survey, depending on length.

8. Dropshipping & E-commerce

With dropshipping, you sell products online without keeping stock. You create a store, list products, and once someone buys, your supplier ships it directly to the customer.

Tools like:

  • Shopify + Dsers

  • WooCommerce + AliExpress

  • Zyda (for food business delivery in SA)

This model requires marketing skills (especially Facebook Ads and TikTok content), but has high earning potential.

9. Make Money with TikTok & Instagram

In 2025, social media is currency. South Africans with big followings are earning through:

  • Brand deals

  • Live gifts

  • Selling their own products or courses

Even with 1,000 followers, you can start monetizing by creating niche content (e.g., cooking, fashion, fitness, kasi life hacks).

10. Sell Digital Products

South Africans are creating and selling:

  • E-books (e.g., how to hustle in SA, budgeting, healthy eating)

  • Canva templates

  • Notion planners

  • Online courses or guides

Use platforms like:

  • PayHip

  • Gumroad

  • Teachable

  • Shopify

This allows you to earn passively and sell globally, even while you sleep.

Final Tips for Success

  • Be patient: Online income grows over time.

  • Keep learning: Watch YouTube, take free courses on platforms like Coursera and Skillshare.

  • Use cheap data hacks: Night data bundles, Telkom free me plans, or WiFi-sharing.

  • Network: Join SA Facebook hustle groups or Telegram side hustle channels.

Conclusion

Making money online in South Africa in 2025 is not a scam or fantasy. It’s real — and thousands of people are already doing it from their phones, laptops, or even in the kasi. Whether you’re a student, unemployed, or just trying to earn extra cash, there’s a hustle out there for you.

Choose one or two methods, be consistent, and start building your digital empire in Mzansi.

You may also want to read: Tips for Young Entrepreneurs in South Africa (2025 Guide).

10 Smart Tips for Young Entrepreneurs in South Africa (2025 Guide)

Posted on by David Johnson

Starting a business as a young person in South Africa is full of opportunity — but it’s not without challenges. With high youth unemployment and limited access to funding, your hustle needs to be smart, strategic, and well-informed. Fortunately, support structures like the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) offer funding, training, and mentorship opportunities to help young South Africans turn ideas into businesses.

At Mzansi Brief, we’re passionate about helping South African youth succeed in business. Whether you’re starting a side hustle in your township or dreaming of building the next big startup in Jozi or Cape Town, these 10 localized tips are designed to help you get ahead.

1. 🎯 Start Small, Think Big

You don’t need big money to get started — just a smart idea that solves a real problem. Think low-cost, high-impact.
Example: Resell affordable beauty products from local suppliers on WhatsApp before launching a full online store.

2. 🔍 Know the South African Market

Do local market research:

  • Who are your customers in SA?

  • What’s missing in your area or online?

  • What are others doing that you can do better?
    Use TikTok, Facebook groups, and even local spaza shop trends for insights.

3. 💸 Keep Your Finances Tight

Money mistakes can kill your hustle.

  • Use free budgeting apps like 22seven

  • Keep business and personal money separate

  • Reinvest profits, even if small

4. 🧠 Learn the Basics — Free

You don’t need a degree, but you do need knowledge.

  • Learn branding, pricing, customer service

  • Watch free YouTube tutorials

  • Use free platforms like Coursera and Udemy

5. 📱 Master Social Media Marketing

In South Africa, your smartphone is your best marketing tool.

  • Use TikTok, IG Reels & Facebook Marketplace

  • Show behind-the-scenes of your hustle

  • Focus on building community, not just selling

6. 💪 Build a Resilient Hustler Mindset

Things get hard. Push through.

  • Stay consistent, even when it’s slow

  • Celebrate small wins

  • Don’t fear failure — it’s part of growth

7. 🤝 Connect with Other Hustlers

Don’t do it alone. Join:

  • Youth business WhatsApp groups

  • Local events like NYDA workshops

  • Online communities like Mzansi Brief

8. 📝 Register Your Business (When Ready)

Start informal if needed, but grow into formal.

  • Register with CIPC

  • Open a business account

  • Learn SARS basics early

9. 📚 Keep Learning and Adapting

Stay up to date:

  • Follow SA business TikTokers and YouTubers

  • Read news from platforms like BusinessTech or Mzansi Brief

  • Watch trends in your niche

10. 🚀 Start Now

Don’t wait for perfect timing.

  • Start that TikTok page

  • Sell one product

  • Learn as you go. Every big business in SA started with a small step.

👥 Final Word: You’re Not Alone

Youth entrepreneurship in South Africa is booming — and you’re part of the wave. At Mzansi Brief, we believe in hustlers building their own futures, one idea at a time.

💬 Want to share your story or ask a question? Contact us — let’s grow together.