LIMPOPO – Nthonifheni Mudau from Tshitereke says she has seen too many unemployed graduates to not do anything to improve their situation.

“These graduates are at home due to lack of jobs in South Africa and many of them don’t want to hustle in other positions due to pride. They tell themselves they can never work in such places while they have a degree,” the 29-year-old bricklayer said.

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“I have an honours degree in indigenous knowledge systems from the University of Venda, but due to limited job options in South Africa, I found myself selling atchar at home in order to generate an income. I always told myself that I will not give up because of the challenges I face,” Nthonifheni explained.

With the help of her mother, she managed to raise money and started an atchar business during which time she got the opportunity to deliver her product to the Fatima Store in Thohoyandou and Goldville Supermarket in Vhufuli.

“It was never an easy journey. People would see me in dirty clothes and make fun of me, while others wanted to report me to the police and say that I am a foreigner who does not have the necessary documents that allow me to be in South Africa. While working, I did not stop applying for the job I studied for and I got a job as a bricklayer,” she told CV.

Nthonifheni intends to continue her hustle.

“I want to have my own chicken business and supply eggs to different companies. Covid-19 came and ruined many things, many people lost their jobs while others remained unemployed. I would advise the youth to take on anything they can or even to start a small business of their own because you never know how big your business will grow. Who knows, maybe you will find yourself among the most well-known business people in South Africa one day. Never stop dreaming big and do not allow people to discourage you,” Nthonifheni concluded.