By Gofaone Motsamai and Phenyo Mokgothu

The School of Management Sciences at the North-West University (NWU) hosted a Side Hustle Master Class at the Mahikeng Campus on 6 March 2025, bringing together students, lecturers and business professionals to explore strategies for developing and sustaining side businesses.

The event featured entrepreneur and author Willem Gous as the main speaker.

Prof Sonia Swanepoel, deputy vice-chancellor for community engagement and Mahikeng Campus operations, says such sessions are necessary to equip participants with practical skills to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape.

“We must move beyond the idea that a university degree leads only to employment. Students need to see entrepreneurship as a real option. Universities should not just produce graduates looking for jobs, but also individuals who can create economic opportunities for themselves and others.”

Willem encouraged participants to act despite uncertainty. “Fear stops many from starting,” he said. “Success begins with action, not hesitation. The key to a thriving side hustle is to embrace the journey, fuel ambition and turn passion into profit.”

To enhance the learning experience, participants received copies of Willem’s book as a practical guide to building sustainable side businesses. The School of Management Sciences also distributed bookmarks with key insights from the session.

“Entrepreneurship is not just about ideas; it is about execution. Now is the time to turn ideas into reality,” said Willem.

Entrepreneur and author Willem Gous led the Side Hustle Master Class.