Where It All Started
In 2016, I was enrolled at Howard College in KwaZulu-Natal. At the time, I was living in KwaMashu
with my mom and commuting to campus every day. I had NSFAS funding, but it wasn’t enough.
Transport costs, food, and daily survival—it was always a struggle to keep up.
Learning to Hustle on Campus
By 2017, I was fully committed. I kept pushing the snack business, learning as I went. Then in 2018,
during my third year, things started to shift. People on campus knew me as the guy selling snacks. I
moved into residence and started building a small team.
The Stranger Who Changed Everything
One day, a guy I didn’t even know showed up at my dorm room and asked to borrow R50. I gave it
to him. A few days later, he came back, returned the money, and introduced me to an upholstery
opportunity.
Entering the Upholstery Business in Durban
I helped find a workspace, contributed to rent, and even used money from my snack business to
buy materials. Slowly, the upholstery and carpentry work started picking up, and clients began
coming in.
When Things Fell Apart
Challenges came when poor discipline affected the quality of work. Clients complained, and
eventually I decided to leave and start on my own.
Starting Over (Again)
I tried building my first couch—it failed. But I kept going, learning through practice and improving my
skills over time.
Building Multiple Streams
In 2019, my snack business grew with a team of four to five people. I also started photography,
continued upholstery jobs, and even got an office on campus.
COVID and Skill Development
During COVID in 2020, I focused on improving my skills, building a couch every month. Later, I got
an opportunity to train others in upholstery and carpentry.
Growth, Travel, and New Opportunities
From 2021 to 2025, I worked with organizations, launched a book, and even traveled to Cape Town
for renovation work, gaining more experience
Where I Am Now
Today, I work from a shared workshop, limiting outside work so I can focus on building my own
systems and independence.
I Post Deals Near Me
I now source furniture, flip deals, and connect buyers with sellers. This is no longer just about
carpentry—it’s about building a system that works for me.
For new and second-hand furniture deals in Durban, call us