BY NOSIPHO MABUZA (INTERN)
MBABANE — What began as a hobby for Nombuyiselo Tsabedze has swiftly transformed into a thriving business that funds her university education.
In her twenties and currently pursuing a Journalism and Media degree at Limkokwing University, Tsabedze better known online as Nailed by Mbuyi, has successfully balanced her creativity with practicality.
“I didn’t get a scholarship, so I had to find a way to support myself while in school,” she explains, highlighting her motivation to establish a financial foundation amidst her studies.
Her journey into the world of nails was sparked by her aunt Thandekile Mndzebele, @nailsbythandekile, a professional nail technician who graciously mentored her. Although she hasn’t undergone formal training, her aunt’s guidance allowed her to master the craft. She began by practicing on friends and family, gradually building a client base through referrals and the power of social media platforms like TikTok.
“Social media has been a game-changer for me,” she shares. “TikTok helped my work go viral.”
Now operating from home and often fully booked, Tsabedze expertly manages her business alongside her academic responsibilities. “Balancing school and business isn’t easy. If you’re not careful, one will take over the other,” she admits. “But I always remind myself that I came to Mbabane for education, so school comes first.”
Even when faced with challenging clients, she remains focused and dedicated. “I plan my bookings wisely and don’t let stressful clients get to me,” she says, showcasing her professionalism and resilience.
Support from her family and partner has been instrumental in her success, particularly in financial aspects. She continually upgrades her working tools and keeps up with new trends in nail art to deliver the best service possible.
Looking ahead, she has a clear vision for her future: “If I don’t land a well-paying job after university, I’ll definitely continue doing nails. That’s a fact!” Her five-year plan includes running a large beauty business and creating opportunities for other young women—just as her aunt did for her.
For students considering side hustles, she encourages them to take the leap. “Starting this was the best decision I made. I’ve never lacked anything throughout my varsity life. It made things so much easier.”
With determination, unwavering support, and a savvy approach to social media, Nombuyiselo Tsabedze is turning her side hustle into a serious success—one polished set at a time.
