By Palesa Matlala
- Sibongile has worked as a sex worker in Johannesburg for over 21 years after her cousin introduced her to it.
- She bought a house in 2016 and a second-hand car in November 2025 with money earned from regular private clients.
A Johannesburg woman who has worked as a sex worker for over 21 years has bought herself a house and a car.
Sibongile was introduced to sex work by her late cousin.
“She didn’t shy away from it because she was able to feed her children,” Sibongile said.
For 13 years, Sibongile hid what she did for work. She only told her family at her housewarming party in 2016.
“I disclosed to my family that I am sex worker and my work helped me buy my first house,” she said. “I could see the disappointment and disgust on my family’s faces.”
In November 2025, Sibongile bought herself a second-hand car from an auction. She got her driver’s licence in 2023.
Sibongile used to work on the busy streets of Johannesburg and would be picked up by clients.
After regular clients started booking her, she left the streets. She now focuses on private regular clients.
Her clients pay between R4,500 and R5,000. For weekend or holiday bookings, she makes almost R10,000.
“This is a dog’s world. You don’t hustle, you will starve. The point is no one can survive Ramaphosa’s economy even with a job,” she said.
Sex work is illegal in South Africa. The industry faces strong opposition from people who view it as a violation of human dignity and a threat to public morality.
It is estimated there are about 500,000 sex workers in the country.
Sibongile does not have children. She has not worked a traditional job but has a stable income and assets.
Pictured above: Illustration image.
Image source: Pexels
