In a remarkable tale of perseverance and determination, 23-year-old Phophi Mudau, a final-year BCom Management Sciences student at Stellenbosch University (SU), has turned a challenging financial situation into a triumphant success story.
Burdened with significant student debt after the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) ceased her funding, Phophi embarked on a unique entrepreneurial journey – selling packets of sweets to raise the funds necessary for her graduation this month.
“I knew I had to take drastic action to graduate,” Phophi said, recalling the moment in December when she learned she had passed all her subjects. With an ambitious target of R47 000 to meet, the prospect of selling 750 packets of sweets loomed before her. Her commitment to honouring her mother, who is unemployed and has faced numerous hardships since Phophi's father left the family, fuelled her desire to succeed.
Undeterred, Phophi sourced sweets from Makro, repackaging them to create mixed bags sold at R60 each. Throughout the year, she adeptly utilised various social media platforms to reach both students and the wider Stellenbosch community.
However, just as December promised to be a bustling month for her sales, a surprise visit from Johannesburg radio station Hot 102.7 FM changed everything. Unexpectedly arriving at her residence, the station representatives informed Phophi that their “Hot Cares Christmas” campaign would purchase all her remaining stock, thus clearing her substantial debt and allowing her to graduate in peace. In a further gesture of kindness, they promised to fly her mother and sister to the graduation ceremony.
“I just cried when they told me,” Phophi shared, visibly overwhelmed by the news. “It felt like the universe was finally on my side.” Phophi's journey has been fraught with challenges, and she reflects on the toll her entrepreneurial efforts have taken: “Sometimes, I was so tired that I just cried.” Despite the adversity, Phophi expressed gratitude for the support she received from her community.
“I have met so many amazing and kind people who not only supported me financially but also offered encouragement that kept me going.”
Reflecting on her academic journey, Phophi admitted, “It hasn't been easy,” but she remains optimistic, stating, “The beautiful parts outweigh all the bad.”
Dr Leslie van Rooi, SU's acting Senior Director: Student Affairs, praised Phophi for her resilience and initiative. “This determination and resilience are skills that will stand her in good stead throughout her life. We are immensely proud of what she has achieved, and we wish her and her family well.”