Briefly News is honoured to spotlight the determination and achievements of single mothers through our special project, “Women of Wonder: Moms Single-Handedly Running Families and Businesses.” The initiative shares the extraordinary stories of six single mothers raising their children with love and dedication while also making significant strides in their professional lives.
Briefly News is honoured to spotlight the determination and achievements of single mothers through our special project, “Women of Wonder: Moms Single-Handedly Running Families and Businesses.” The initiative shares the extraordinary stories of six single mothers raising their children with love and dedication while also making significant strides in their professional lives.
Single-parent families are a significant demographic in South Africa, according to the Social Research Foundation. Stats show that nearly half of kids aged 0-6 live in such households, predominantly with their mothers. Despite the challenges faced by a crippled economy and high unemployment rates, these women are the epitome of strength and tenacity. They juggle family responsibilities with career aspirations, often overcoming significant challenges to succeed.
Our featured mothers hail from diverse backgrounds and industries, each with a unique story of triumph. From running successful businesses to excelling in their careers, these women embody resilience and commitment. Meet the powerhouses who prove that single mothers can not only succeed in all spheres of life, but excel in them.
At the age of 16, Ntobeko Mafu faced stigmatisation when she became a mom. After her father suddenly passed away, Mafu took over her family's chicken business. The single mom is now the founder of Madame Clucks Alot, a poultry farming business where she rears and sells broiler chicken to provide for her family and community.
I am proud that despite having all the odds against me and facing all the criticism in the world, I was able to find myself in motherhood.
Ongezwa Jiyane is a source of inspiration for moms on social media. The single mom of three boys had her first child at 18, and she refused to let early motherhood dampen her ambitions. Embracing her journey, Ongezwa uses platforms like YouTube and TikTok to share her experiences and motivate other single moms. Known as 'city mom,' Ongezwa's content focuses on the joys and challenges of motherhood, highlighting the importance of love, resilience and self-care.
I view being a single mother as a blessing for me, despite the challenges
Omontle Thato Moremong is a single mother who built a successful business and ventured into property investment despite significant challenges. The momma boasts over 29K followers on TikTok, where she takes Mzansi on her journey of resilience and hard work, emphasising financial independence.
I hope my children will remember me as someone who believed in the impossible.
Mbasa Kula fell pregnant at 19 during her first year of university. Despite becoming a mom at a young age, she focused on her goals and continued her studies. Mbasa graduated with a BCom degree alongside her four-year-old daughter.
Mothers need to take care of themselves first in oder to take care of their children.
Lwazilubanzi Mthembu is the definition of talent and determination. She seamlessly juggles her roles as an accomplished actress, dancer, business trainer and single mother. While she has achieved great success in her career, Mthembu is proudest of her ability to stay true to herself amid life's challenges while raising her daughter with love and care.
Every hardship, joy, and victory is starting to make sense as I enter a more settled phase of life.
Khumo Mwase is a scientist-turned-entrepreneur who left her job at 30 to launch a home-based business. Khumo faced financial struggles post-divorce but found success through her Forever Living business. The single mom's decision to retire early from her science career allowed her to become financially independent and available to her two children. Now a thriving business mentor, she empowers others to diversify their income streams while balancing motherhood and her career.
Instead of dwelling on the negatives, I choose to inspire other women and show them that it's possible to be a single mom.