Side Hustles for Women in South Africa

Side Hustles for Women in South Africa: A Full Guide

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In South Africa, where the cost of living continues to rise and economic opportunities can be limited, especially for women, side hustles have become more than just a financial bonus — they’re a necessity. Whether you’re a student, full-time employee, stay-at-home mom, or entrepreneur, having an additional income stream can empower you with financial freedom, flexibility, and peace of mind.

This guide will take you through practical and accessible side hustle ideas tailored for women in South Africa. From online gigs to in-person services, you’ll discover opportunities suited to various skills, passions, and lifestyle needs.

1. Selling Products on Facebook Marketplace or WhatsApp

One of the most straightforward side hustles is selling new or secondhand items through Facebook Marketplace or WhatsApp groups. You can sell clothing, baby items, household goods, cosmetics, or even baked goods.

Why it works:

  • No startup capital required

  • Wide local reach

  • Easy to operate from home

Tip: Use clear photos and write honest, engaging descriptions. Offer delivery if possible for convenience.

2. Online Tutoring or Homework Assistance

With the demand for online education growing in South Africa, tutoring is an excellent side hustle for women with a background in academics, teaching, or even just a passion for helping others learn.

Subjects in demand:

  • English

  • Mathematics

  • Accounting

  • Afrikaans

  • Science

Websites like Teach Me 2 or Superprof allow you to create a tutor profile and get matched with students.

3. Hairdressing and Beauty Services from Home

Many women already know how to do braids, nails, or makeup — why not turn that skill into a business? You can offer services from home, visit clients, or even host mobile beauty parties.

Start-up tools:

  • Basic hair or nail kits

  • Marketing on WhatsApp and Instagram

  • Appointment scheduling via free apps

4. Freelance Writing or Virtual Assistance

If you’re good at organizing, writing, or communication, you can offer freelance services to businesses and entrepreneurs around the world.

Platforms to explore:

Services could include:

  • Data entry

  • Email management

  • Copywriting

  • Proofreading

  • Social media management

5. Dropshipping or E-commerce

If you’ve always dreamed of running an online shop but don’t want to stock inventory, dropshipping is a smart alternative. You market products on your site, and your supplier handles delivery.

What to sell:

  • Home décor

  • Phone accessories

  • Women’s fashion

  • Fitness items

Platforms like Shopify or Shopstar are user-friendly and widely used in South Africa.

6. YouTube or TikTok Content Creation

Creating content is a slow but rewarding side hustle that can turn into a full-blown career. Women who consistently post helpful, funny, or engaging videos can earn through brand partnerships, YouTube ads, and affiliate links.

Related Posts:

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

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

Popular content themes:

  • Motherhood and parenting

  • Natural hair care

  • Beauty tutorials

  • Cooking recipes

  • Day-in-the-life vlogs

7. Instagram Affiliate Marketing

Even if you don’t have a huge following, affiliate marketing can help you make money by promoting products and services. Each time someone makes a purchase using your affiliate link, you earn a commission.

How to start:

8. Baking and Catering Small Orders

For women who love to cook or bake, selling cupcakes, birthday cakes, platters, or daily lunches can be a profitable hustle. Start with friends and family, and let word of mouth grow your business.

Tools to consider:

  • WhatsApp Business for orders

  • Canva for designing a basic menu

  • Food packaging and labeling

9. Laundry and Ironing Services

With many people too busy to manage household chores, offering laundry or ironing services is a practical way to make money.

You’ll need:

  • Ironing board and iron

  • Laundry baskets

  • Pick-up and drop-off arrangement

Even in small communities, this service is in high demand.

10. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

In urban areas like Johannesburg, Pretoria, or Cape Town, pet services are becoming increasingly needed. If you love animals, you can make extra money by walking dogs or pet-sitting during holidays.

Advertise on:

  • Local Facebook groups

  • Pet owner communities

  • Gumtree

11. Renting Out Extra Space

If you have a spare room, flat, or even parking spot, you can rent it out via platforms like:

  • Airbnb (for accommodation)

  • Snuuz or Gumtree (for parking)

This is a mostly passive income stream, perfect for women who prefer not to trade time for money.

12. Sewing, Alterations, or Custom Fashion

If you have a sewing machine and basic skills, you can offer clothing alterations, curtain stitching, or even custom clothing designs.

Target audiences:

  • School uniform repairs

  • Traditional wear for weddings

  • Custom party dresses

You can partner with salons, wedding planners, or clothing boutiques for referrals.

13. Digital Products or Ebooks

Women who are skilled in a specific topic — fitness, parenting, budgeting, or health — can create and sell ebooks or digital downloads online.

Ideas include:

  • Meal planners

  • Budgeting templates

  • Motivational journals

  • Business start-up guides

Use Canva to design and Gumroad or Paystack to sell.

14. Online Surveys and Microtasks

Although not highly lucrative, online surveys and microtasks are a flexible way to earn in your spare time.

Top sites in South Africa:

Use them for airtime, vouchers, or small payouts.

15. Handmade Crafts and Jewelry

Women who are artistic can turn their passion into profit by creating:

  • Beaded jewelry

  • Resin art

  • Scented candles

  • Keychains or bookmarks

Sell at:

  • Local markets

  • Craft fairs

  • Instagram shops

  • Etsy (international)

Final Tips for Side Hustling Success

  • Start small: Test one idea and scale as you grow.

  • Use free tools: Canva, WhatsApp Business, and Facebook are powerful for marketing.

  • Track income/expenses: Even a small hustle should be treated like a business.

  • Learn and upskill: Platforms like Coursera, YouTube, and Skillshare can help.

Conclusion

There has never been a better time for women in South Africa to take control of their financial futures. Whether you want to cover monthly expenses, save for a goal, or transition into full-time entrepreneurship, side hustles offer the flexibility, income, and empowerment to get started.

Choose something aligned with your strengths, work consistently, and watch how even a small idea can grow into a sustainable income stream.