By Anita Dangazele
- A 23-year-old graduate started selling homemade ice lollies after failing to find work and running out of money for basic needs.
- The small business helps her buy toiletries and survive while continuing to search for a job.
A 23-year-old graduate from Soweto on Sea in Gqeberha says unemployment forced her to find another way to survive.
She completed her studies hoping to find work quickly. Months later she is still unemployed and struggling to afford basic items.
While studying she relied on her NSFAS allowance to buy toiletries and cosmetics. After graduating that support ended and no job followed.
She lives with her three older siblings and their children. Their parents died when they were young and money in the household is already stretched.
As the youngest she did not want to ask her siblings for help. When her last toiletries ran out she felt desperate.
Her brother gave her R200 to go job hunting. Instead she used the money to start a small business.
She bought powdered milk vanilla essence food colouring and plastic packets and began making creamy ice lollies.
The lollies sell well during summer. When the weather turns cold she adds sweets, chocolates and chips to keep the business going.
The income is small but helps her buy toiletries and basic items while she continues to look for work.
She says the business has given her dignity, hope and a sense of independence during a difficult time.
Pictured above: Frozen ice lollies.
Image source: Supplied
