Young Woman Builds Thriving Business Using NSFAS Funds

Holifil

02 Apr, 2025

A young woman in South Africa revealed how she transformed her National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funds into a successful business venture.
By investing R1.4k over six years, she turned a modest allowance into a thriving company that empowers young people.
Social media users were left in awe of her entrepreneurial spirit, showering her with praise in the comment section.
Briefly News caught up with Naledi Dikotla, who shared her inspiring journey of building her business from the ground up.

In a world where many students use their NSFAS funds for textbooks or gadgets, one young woman decided to take a different path. Instead of spending her financial aid on personal luxuries, Naledi Dikotla chose to invest in something far more meaningful: her future.

Naledi Dikotla turned her NSFAS allowance into a business. Image: @naledidikotla1. Source: TikTok

From Student to Entrepreneur: Naledi's Journey

Naledi Dikotla, a young woman from Johannesburg, made headlines after revealing how she built her business using NSFAS funds. Over six years, she carefully saved and invested her R1.4k allowance into what would eventually become Atlegang Growth SA. This company specializes in helping young people access educational and employment opportunities both locally and internationally.

Speaking to the publication, Naledi shared her backstory. Growing up in Alexandra, she learned the value of financial discipline early on. Despite coming from what she described as a "toxic environment," she always dreamed of entrepreneurship. "I knew starting a business was my calling," she explained. "But I didn’t have rich parents or anyone in my circle who could sponsor me. So, I decided to make the most out of what I had—my NSFAS allowance."

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"I started planning my financial strategy while still in high school. By the time I got to university, I was ready to sacrifice certain comforts to build my dream. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it."

Building a Bright Future Through Sacrifice

Naledi’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. To save money, she adopted a minimalist lifestyle. She avoided expensive clothes, opted for thrifted items, and skipped salon visits. Instead, she focused on essentials like food and transportation. "I budgeted everything," she explained. "I spent only R600 per month on groceries and toiletries, and I shared costs with my roommate to stretch our budgets further."

"The remaining R800 went toward traveling to schools to secure clients and covering printing costs for marketing materials. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was necessary."

Even as her business began to generate income, Naledi reinvested heavily into its growth. "There were times when I had to split profits between myself, the company, and even my family," she admitted. "But I never lost sight of my goals. Sacrificing a typical university experience allowed me to focus on building something bigger than myself."

"Looking back, I’m so proud of what I’ve accomplished. It wasn’t easy juggling studies, work, and entrepreneurship, but every challenge taught me valuable lessons."

Empowering the Next Generation

Naledi’s motivation to start Atlegang Growth SA stemmed from her own struggles. After achieving excellent results in matric, she found it nearly impossible to secure bursaries or scholarships. Realizing how difficult it was for many students to navigate this process alone, she decided to create a solution. Since launching in 2019, her company has helped countless young people access educational and career opportunities across South Africa and beyond.

Naledi Dikotla’s business has transformed lives. Image: Naledi Dikotla. Source: Original

Expanding Horizons: Atlegang Growth SA’s Vision

Naledi’s ambitions don’t stop here. She envisions Atlegang Growth SA becoming the leading youth opportunity provider in South Africa. "We want to reach learners in all nine provinces and expand into the international market," she said. "Already, we’ve formed partnerships with over 260 institutions in 10 countries, including the UK and USA."

"Our mission is to expose South African youth to global experiences through programs like the Au Pair cultural exchange. We’re also developing an AI-based initiative to prepare high school students for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. With the right support, we believe we can change lives on a massive scale."

Naledi encourages other young people to pursue side hustles. "Whether it’s offering laundry services or braiding hair, find ways to generate extra income," she advised. "Every little bit helps when it comes to building a sustainable business."

Reactions from South Africa

Naledi’s story resonated deeply with people across the country. On social media, users praised her determination and vision. Miss_Odetta expressed her admiration: "I’m so inspired! Keep going, black child!"

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To chimed in with encouragement: "Let’s meet at the top!"

Landiwemalandi acknowledged the challenges Naledi faced: "Some of us can’t save because we have families to support, but I’m happy for you!"

Host Like a Pro celebrated her success: "It’s not NSFAS—it’s you who made it happen!"

Michelle added heartfelt praise: "May God bless you and your entire team!"

Another Inspiring Story: Building a Home with NSFAS Funds

Naledi isn’t the only one making waves with NSFAS funds. Monica Dumazi, another student, used her financial aid to construct a living space. Sharing the process on TikTok, she showcased her creative approach to maximizing resources. "I took the R14,000 I received per semester and turned it into a home," she explained. Her story serves as another reminder of the power of ingenuity and perseverance.