Student entrepreneurs succeed while juggling academic life

A number of student entrepreneurs at the North-West University (NWU) continue to make a success out of their businesses while managing their academic life.

Gau Mogapi (22), a third-year student in BSc dietetics at the NWU, is the owner of HairByGau, which she started when she was in grade 11. Her salon provides braiding, styling and treatment services for all hair types. HairByGau caters to students who are looking for quality styling service at an affordable price.

In her experience as a student entrepreneur, she said that a very important aspect in her business is ensuring that all her clients feel beautiful and confident when they leave. “The best part, I must say, is where I get to share experiences with my peers.”

Mogapi said that her biggest challenge is balancing her studies and the hair business, especially when it is month end, since it then gets extremely busy. “Learning not to mix emotions with business is also one of my challenges. I have to keep in mind that there is a certain level of professionalism that comes with running a business and, overall, being a brand,” Mogapi said.

Karabo Makgakga (22), also known as “Kreezy”, is the brand owner of Kaito Clothing, which she started in August 2020. She said that what defines her brand is that it is street wear and that her biggest audience is university students. She further said that, “the best part about being an entrepreneur is seeing people wear my brand.”

“It’s a challenge for me having to concentrate on my school work, but I try to balance [it],” said Makgakga, since she needs to juggle her business deliveries and school work.

Ashleigh Mtetwa (22), NWU postgraduate studying LLB and owner of a mobile bakery called Ashleigh Caked It, said that her biggest motivation is seeing people happy. She further said that, “Positive feedback is the best motivation you can get because sometimes you’re really tired and do not really want to bake because there is also school.”