Self-taught nail tech and teacher empowers others through her side hustle
Primary school teacher Fikile Mabuza taught herself how to do nails in 2022 to save money. Today, she runs a growing nail business and is helping others find financial freedom through creativity.
Tsakani – Fikile Mabuza is a self-taught nail technician and a primary school teacher by profession. Her journey as a nail technician started in 2022 when she discovered how expensive it was to get her nails done.
She taught herself how to do nails, spent hours watching tutorials, studying designs, and learning the science behind nail care and technique.
Through trial and error, determination, and pure love for the craft, she transformed her skills into something truly professional.
“I admired a colleague that I worked with who did nails. Her work was beautiful and admirable, but quite pricey. I embarked on a journey of learning how to do my own nails.
Photo: Fikile Mabuza
“When I had gotten the gist of how everything works and what needs to go where, I started doing my colleagues’ nails as part of practice,” explained Mabuza.
“I did their nails for free because I was not perfect yet. I was practising and they loved that. They loved my work, and as soon as I started perfecting my craft, I ventured into a side hustling mode and opened a small business.”
Mabuza said her business received a lot of support from the people she works with. Posting her business on WhatsApp and other social platforms also gained her a lot of support.
“I am also open to teaching those who want to learn. I believe in empowering others through the skills that I have acquired.
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“Many people are unemployed, and this sort of business brings in money and may help many who are struggling to find their feet. It is amazing to work and make your own money to sustain your basic needs,” added Mabuza.
Her goal is to empower many other women to start their own businesses, to explore their creative side through unique and colourful nail art.
As her business continues to grow, Mabuza cited that she still learns every day and remains open-minded towards learning new things.
Her journey is proof that with passion, consistency, and a little courage, you can create your own path and turn your dreams into reality.
