Rudolph Lekay, 19, from Morgenster, first started selling small packets of sweets for R2 and R3, along with pretzels for R2, in Grade 9.
Image: Marsha Bothma
A Morgenster Mitchells Plain matriculant, has raised R10 000 in just six months by selling sweets and pretzels.
His goal was not only to cover the cost of his matric ball and travel expenses but also to help provide for his family.
His efforts have also earned him a bursary to pursue further studies.
Rudolph Lekay, 19, started selling small packets of sweets for R2 and R3, and pretzels for R2, in Grade 9.
After a break, he revived the idea in December and continued until April.
Each morning, between 5am and 6am, he sold on his way to school before commuting from Town Centre to Ravensmead, where he attends Florida High.
He described his business as a practical way to support his family and earn his own income.
He is the youngest of four siblings.
His older sister, Blanche Bell, died in 2012.
His matric ball, which will take place on Friday, October 3, will fall on what would have been her birthday.
His mother, Rosaline Lekay, 64, a pensioner, said she hadn’t anticipated just how dedicated he would be.
“I have taught him much in this life, and his growing business shows that he listens to my advice. He must continue this even if I am gone. I am very proud of him. He must dream big. His future is bright,” she said.
Lekay's efforts gained attention on social media after a video of him selling sweets went viral. His story also reached the Alfeco Foundation, which awarded him a bursary to pursue tertiary education anywhere in South Africa.
The foundation, founded by businessman Sachin Ahuja, focuses on education, food security, youth and women’s development, environmental conservation, and social welfare.
Lekay plans to study e-commerce and hopes to one day start his own business.
Florida High School principal, Cynthia Loxton, praised his growth and dedication.
She said Lekay repeated Grade 11 and told her: “If I didn’t repeat, things wouldn’t have turned out this way.”
She believes this showed maturity and discipline.
“He raised the money not just for his matric ball but also for his traveling fees. He wanted to relieve the pressure on his mother. He has my respect.”
She said he attends school consistently despite living far away.
Cape Argus