45-year-old student funds education through ‘treat’ hustle
After losing her job, a 45-year-old woman had to start selling biscuits and rusks to pay off study debt and continue her studies.
A 45-year-old woman born and bred in Pretoria is working to achieve her dream of focusing on the scientific study of human behaviour in the workplace.
Benica Mills is studying for a degree in Industrial and Organisational Psychology at Unisa.
Mills detailed her journey to Rekord and described it as not being an easy one.
She said life took a turn after she lost her job in 2023.
She is currently living with her 78-year-old mother in Waverley.
Although she had just completed her first degree in Administration through the job, she still had to pay off study debt.
With no income to cover her remaining study fees and living expenses, things became hard for her and her mother.
She said that in this difficult period, the only option for survival was selling baked treats to support her family.
Mills said without funding, studying was a difficult activity to partake in.
“I have been selling the rusks and biscuits for more than four years now. I started selling as a part-time job.”
Mills said at first it was hard for her because of her introverted personality, but dedication helped her become a better person.
“With no job, selling freshly baked rusks and biscuits just to get some income does not cover all the costs.
“I started advertising and selling cookies on Facebook and WhatsApp but had to learn to communicate in person. In the beginning, it was hard but I have met some wonderful and generous people.”
She said selling the treats and growing the business using various means had equipped her with the financial ability to continue paying for her tuition fees.
Her customer base has also grown as she goes around schools and streets in the Moot to let people know about her treats and give them free tasting sometimes.
“I have learned that there are people out there that believe in what you’re doing. Honesty, friendliness and dedication have helped me to become a better person.
“I am hoping that when I finish my degree, job opportunities will arise for me.”
She said about two years ago, she also started a project that she calls the “Heart Project” where she and her mother bake and donate cookies and rusks to women who attend a yearly counselling camp.
She advised students and people in the same situation as hers to never give up on their studies or business ideas.
“Don’t think it’s not possible if you haven’t tried, be patient, learn from feedback and try improving. Start small, take photos and post, your customers will notice you.”
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