LIMPOPO – Marike Theron, a Merensky Agricultural Academy learner who secured third place in the latest season of Maak my ’n Miljoenêr, says she is filled with gratitude after making it to the top three of the entrepreneur reality competition.

Marike says her elimination came with mixed emotions. “I was very sad when the final episode aired. We spent so much time together during workshops in Pretoria and the ten days of filming at ATKV resorts. We became like a family,” she said.

She celebrated her achievement with her family, her best friend, and her grandparents, who attended the finale with her.

Inspiration from entrepreneur Albert van Wyk

Her journey began after self-made millionaire, entrepreneur, author, and speaker Albert van Wyk visited Merensky.

“He motivated us so much. That inspired me to enter,” she said.

One of her most memorable moments was a sunrise gratitude session at Goudini Spa. “Albert gathered us on the mountain for five minutes of gratitude. That moment made me realise how privileged we truly are.”

Making the top three, she said, was an achievement she is proud of. She took each round “step by step,” reminding herself to learn from the experts and treat every challenge as growth.

Her time on national television came with its own challenges. “At first I felt like a movie star, but it was tough to follow all the rules, like not looking at the camera and repeating the question before answering,” she said. “I felt bad for all the bloopers I caused,” she joked.

She credits Van Wyk for invaluable mentorship. “He taught me lessons money can’t buy, not just in business but in everyday challenges.”

Lessons learned on business and personal growth

The experience also taught her important lessons about herself. “I learnt that I need to work on my communication skills and that I have a very competitive attitude. Business is not about money. It’s about helping others achieve financial freedom. Businesses should be tools to uplift people.”

Marike is now focused on expanding her brand, Kiekie Koekies, with new gift boxes, packaging, a website, and more.

She also hopes to create opportunities for other high school learners to sell her brownies and earn pocket money.

She attributes her success to strong support from her Merensky community, hostel peers, Tzaneen residents, friends, her family, and her faith. “They motivated and encouraged me in every aspect,” she said.

She leaves the competition with no regrets. “The knowledge and experience I gained were the biggest bonus.”

Her advice to future contestants: “Give it everything you have and enjoy every moment. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”