How Zanele in Joburg Turned Skincare Content into Steady Income?

Building a Side Hustle While Raising a Child

Zanele used to work part-time at a beauty salon. After leaving her job to raise her baby during the pandemic, she began filming skincare tips at home. Her early videos got few views—but she stayed consistent, sharing honest routines without hard selling.

She picked up editing and storytelling tips from Video Marketing South Africa resources and used Digital Marketing Video Collection as inspiration for her scripts. “I didn’t want to go viral,” she says. “I just wanted to explain things well.”

From Reach to Revenue—Using the Right Tools Matters

As views increased, brands started to reach out. Zanele didn’t rush. First, she set up Sage One Bank Payments SA to handle invoices and income properly—making sure her small side hustle stayed above board.

She also signed up for Safetynet Insurance South Africa, covering health and unexpected costs for her child. “A side hustle needs stability,” she says. “Otherwise, life’s surprises can mess everything up.”

No Flash—Just Consistent, Slow-Burn Monetization

Her videos are simple—no filters, just facts. She posts content alongside notes, and uses Sage for Accounts and Bank Payments to track which topics drive more engagement. It’s about learning the audience, step by step.

Now, two local brands sponsor her content monthly. She’s not a “big creator,” but the stable income helps cover household and parenting expenses. “Side hustles,” she says, “are like skincare—you won’t see results overnight. It takes care and consistency.”

No Gimmicks—Just the Right Direction

Her story is all about patience and precision. She knows what to post, when to wait, and which tools—like Sage One Bank Payments SA—make a real difference in long-term growth.

Maybe you’re in the early days—few likes, no followers. But the next turning point could be sitting quietly in your drafts. The path to steady income may not be loud—but it works.

Building a Community Around Skincare Education

Zanele quickly realized that engaging her audience was just as crucial as delivering quality content. She started to focus on building a supportive community where her viewers could share their skincare journeys and experiences. By encouraging comments and responding to questions, she fostered a safe space for discussions about common skin concerns. This approach not only increased her engagement rates but also made her followers feel valued. Over time, her audience transformed from passive viewers into active participants, which led to a more loyal following and greater brand collaboration opportunities.

The Importance of Authenticity in Content Creation

In the competitive world of skincare content, authenticity became Zanele's unique selling point. She made it a priority to share her genuine experiences rather than just promoting products. This honesty resonated deeply with her audience, as many could relate to her struggles and triumphs. Zanele often emphasized that her recommendations stemmed from personal trials and errors, rather than sponsored endorsements. This practice not only fortified her credibility but also built trust with her followers, who appreciated her straightforward approach and valued her insights, making them more likely to engage with her content.

Leveraging Social Media Platforms for Growth

Zanele understood that diversifying her presence across various social media platforms was vital for growth. While she initially focused on Instagram for its visual appeal, she later expanded to TikTok and YouTube, where she could reach different demographics. Each platform offered unique opportunities for creativity, whether through short, snappy videos on TikTok or detailed tutorials on YouTube. By tailoring her content to suit each platform’s audience, she significantly increased her visibility and engagement. This strategic approach allowed her to attract a wider audience and build a more robust online presence.

Monetization Strategies Beyond Sponsorships

As Zanele's following grew, she explored various monetization strategies beyond brand sponsorships. She began creating digital products, such as e-books and skincare guides, which provided valuable information while generating passive income. Additionally, Zanele started offering personalized skincare consultations, leveraging her knowledge to help others achieve their desired results. This diversification not only increased her revenue streams but also allowed her to establish herself as a skincare expert. By thinking outside the box, she created a sustainable business model that complemented her content creation efforts.

The Role of Consistency in Long-Term Success

Zanele attributes much of her success to the consistency she maintained in her posting schedule. She set specific days for uploads, ensuring her audience knew when to expect new content. This reliability kept her followers engaged and eager for more. Moreover, by consistently sharing her journey, from trials to successes, she demonstrated the growth she experienced as a creator. Zanele often reminds aspiring content creators that the road to success involves steady effort and perseverance. Her commitment to regular content helped solidify her brand and kept her community active and involved.

Embracing Feedback and Continuous Learning

Another key factor in Zanele's journey was her openness to feedback from her audience. She actively sought suggestions on what content they wanted to see, which allowed her to tailor her offerings to their needs. By embracing constructive criticism, she improved her content quality and viewer satisfaction. Additionally, Zanele dedicated time to learning about the latest skincare trends and digital marketing strategies. This continuous improvement not only kept her content fresh and relevant but also positioned her as a knowledgeable figure in the skincare community, ultimately enhancing her brand's reputation.