In a country that is prone to economic recession and an increase in job retrenchment rate, having a secondary job or a ‘side hustle’ is how many South Africans are diversifying their income to live a more financially stable life.

Thato Sefako, a full-time Office Administrator, is one of the many South Africans who took it upon themselves to create a second stream of income or something to fall back on should she face the plight of retrenchment.

Initially making beaded jewellery for close friends and family, the Mafikeng-born mother of one, who describes herself as a creative that is always eager to learn something new, officially founded her jewellery design business in 2016.

Swissroll Luxuries boasts a range of unique and beautifully hand-made jewellery pieces which are designed to suit a number of occasions. Whether worn at African or Western weddings, at the office, or with evening wear; Sefako always ensures that her craftsmanship and quality is a cut above the rest.

As most entrepreneurs would admit, financial issues are inevitable in any business, and Sefako’s jewellery company is no exception. She says that many atimes she’s had to keep her business afloat by using her Office Admin salary. “Now that I have my business, I have hope that financial freedom is possible. It is a work in progress but I am well on my way there,” she says.

In addition to financial setbacks, Sefako also admits that time is her biggest challenge, as she cannot allow her business to interfere with her full-time job. If any good can come out of this challenge, however, is the fact that it is teaching her to manage her time more effectively. She achieves this by working on her designs when she gets back from work, and on weekends, when her orders are big. Her husband and sister-in-law (who have always been supportive) are also on standby in order to help increase productivity.

Not wanting to limit herself and her creative abilities, Sefako has now ventured into the furniture business space where she makes lounge suites, kitchen units, sleigh beds, TV stands and coffee tables. She says that her ultimate goal is to grow the business and have her pieces in boutiques around the country; and even export them.

Sefako’s jewellery pieces can be found at Crafter’s Market in Centurion Mall, Pretoria, or bought directly from her for countrywide deliveries through PEP’s Paxi courier services.

To see more of her work, visit her Facebook page: Swissroll Luxuries. Alternatively you can place your order via email: sefakothatho@yahoo.com

~ Thabile Shange