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7 Side Hustles Every Young South African Can Start With Little or No Money


 Wassup fam! I’m Nhlanhla, and like many young people in SA, I’ve felt the pressure: no job, no income, and too many expectations. But here’s one thing I’ve learned: you don’t need to be rich or connected to start a hustle. You just need the right idea, your phone, and the will to start. In this post, I’m sharing 7 hustles you can do starting today, even with R0 in your bank account.

1. 📱 Social Media Managing

Many small kasi businesses don’t know how to post regularly or create good content. If you know how to use Instagram or Facebook, you can offer to manage someone’s page for a monthly fee. Use free apps like Canva for graphics.

2. 💈 Mobile Haircuts or Braiding

If you can cut hair or do braids, offer your services door-to-door. You don’t need a salon. Start with neighbours or friends. Take pictures of your work and post on WhatsApp or local Facebook groups.

3. 🛍️ Resell Clothes (Thrift Hustle)

Go to second-hand markets or ask around for unwanted clothes, wash them, and resell them on WhatsApp or at taxi ranks. This hustle is big in townships, especially for youth with style and marketing skills.

4. 📸 Photography with Your Phone

Got a good eye? Use your phone to take pictures for birthdays, events, or local brands. Offer affordable photoshoots, and you can upgrade equipment later. Edit with free apps like Snapseed or Lightroom Mobile.

5. 🎤 Voice Notes for Cash

Got a nice voice? You can record voice-overs for adverts, TikTok's, poems, or intros for DJs and YouTubers. People pay for quality audio, and all you need is your phone and a quiet room.

6. 🧑🏿‍🏫 Homework or Assignment Help

If you’re good at school, help younger students with homework or assignments for a small fee. Even basic computer skills or tutoring in Maths/English can bring in some side money.

7. 🎨 Sell Digital Posters or Flyers

Use Canva or any free design tool to create birthday invites, event flyers, or obituaries. You don’t need design training, just a good sense of colour and layout. Offer packages and promote on status updates.

🔚 Final Words from Nhlanhla

The economy might be tough, but we’re tougher. Start where you are. Use what you have. Even if your hustle makes R50 today, it’s better than nothing. Most importantly, don’t be ashamed of starting small.

If you want more hustling tips or free templates (like CVs, pitch messages, or designs), drop your email or comment. We rise together. 🙌🏿

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