“People Are Earning out Here”: Woman Reveals Firefighter Salary in South Africa
- A viral TikTok video revealed the payslip of a Transnet firefighter, opening up a discussion about career earnings
- The creator’s salary transparency content sparked interest among South Africans making career decisions
- The viral video offered South Africans insight into earnings and requirements for becoming a firefighter
- Briefly News reached out to Xavier and Banele Shongwe, both working as firefighters, to get their professional insight into what life in the fire service is really like
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South Africans engaged with the salary reveal, appreciating the insight into career earnings and training requirements for the firefighter role.
Source: Getty Images
On 28 September 2025, career coach TikTok content creator @liferesetwithboni shared a video revealing the payslip of a firefighter employed at Transnet, drawing attention to salary transparency. The video quickly gained traction as viewers learned about earnings in a field that many had not considered in detail. The creator, known for posting anonymous payslips, explained that the job required only a matric certificate, with training provided by the company.
The payslip showed a gross salary of R55,369.70, with a net take-home pay of R35,969.04 after deductions. For South Africans weighing career choices, the video provided valuable insight into the earning potential of a firefighter role, especially within a large organisation like Transnet. It highlighted not only the pay but also how accessibility and training could open doors to the profession.
Salary transparency sparked wide discussion
The post received a wave of attention within just one day, with thousands engaging and sharing it across platforms. Many users appreciated the transparency, saying it helped them think more clearly about career paths. The strong reaction showed just how relevant salary discussions are to South Africans navigating education and job choices. South Africans also thanked her for her content and even continue to ask for pay slips in industries they want to work in.
The comments reflected gratitude and curiosity. Some were inspired by the earning potential, while others were more interested in how the role could be pursued with only matric and training. The overall conversation showed a demand for more openness in discussing salaries and career opportunities across industries.
Xavier explained to Briefly News that while many people think firefighting is a glamorous and high-paying career focused only on putting out fires, the reality is far more demanding. Xavier said:
“Probably the biggest misconception is that it’s an easy, glamorous job with a high salary and limited to fire. It’s a physically and mentally demanding job that requires a lot of continuous training, constant readiness and a wide range of responsibilities beyond fires, such as medical emergencies, inspections and maintenance. Starting salaries are usually low, and it can be emotionally draining; we’re also the first ones at the scene and the last ones to leave. People don’t realise how dangerous some of the things we face are. There are also different aspects to firefighting, and some private firefighting companies, so I really cannot speak as to other branches; municipal, aviation, mine, marine, industrial, forestry; each branch of firefighting has its own challenges.”
Xavier highlighted the physical and emotional challenges of the job, the importance of ongoing training, and the wide range of responsibilities firefighters handle daily. He also shared how he stays motivated and offered valuable advice for anyone hoping to pursue the profession.
“Staying motivated is a combination of proactive and reactive techniques. Engaging in hobbies helps; I personally have a vast skill set and lots of other mechanisms to stay fit, like lifting weights on duty in the gym, weighted and non-weighted callisthenics, and gymnastics. I also run regularly to perform at optimal functionality, push limitations, and be prepared. Start with getting SAESI-approved qualifications like FF1 and FF2. Volunteer if possible, and apply when vacancies appear.”
Banele explained that one of the biggest misconceptions about firefighting is that it’s limited to putting out fires. He said that the job demands unwavering commitment, both physically and mentally:
“People think firefighters only fight fires, but we respond to vehicle accidents, hazardous materials incidents, and various special service calls. Our work also includes rescues, fire prevention talks, and public awareness campaigns. Firefighting is way beyond what people think. It takes a level of dedication very few jobs require because you are responsible for lives; not only the citizens you serve but also your fellow firefighters. It’s physically and mentally demanding, with a constant risk of injury and illness.
To stay motivated and mentally strong, teamwork and preparation play a crucial role.
“We always train and prepare for any situation, which builds confidence and readiness. Teamwork keeps us emotionally supported because we trust each other completely; iron sharpens iron. Remembering why we chose this calling keeps us focused. Being a firefighter is about bravery, loyalty, and devotion to public service."
He also emphasised the importance of mental health and balance:
“We use stress management techniques because speaking out is not a sign of weakness. Many firefighters have their own self-care routines that help with their wellbeing.”
Offering advice to aspiring firefighters, Banele encouraged thorough preparation and perseverance.
“Research the field, visit fire stations, and ask questions. It requires a high level of fitness, a strong work ethic, and a desire to improve daily. This job will test you; you’ll miss birthdays and holidays, but it will also help you grow. Lazy people don’t do well here; it’s for those willing to work hard with humility and put others first.”
He concluded with a powerful reflection on purpose and calling:
“Not everyone will understand why we work so hard or care so much. It’s not for them to understand; it’s for us to know. We’ve been called to protect lives, and that requires us to become the best versions of ourselves mentally, physically, and spiritually. Every day, we strive to be our best because others depend on us. That’s what it truly means to be a firefighter.”
Source: TikTok
Mzansi reacted to the video
Thabang said:
“They are coming for all sectors, Education and Health included.”
Gomo_mrniceguy asked:
“Hi sis, where do we apply for firefighter posts?”
Tshepo added:
“Susani lomubiza ukuze siphile kahle ezweni.”
Sanele Mpungose said:
“Good move, no more corruption.”
MfundoBanks wrote:
“Transnet is down, everything will be private. 😂 even Eskom will be dismantled like this.”
MatshingelaneOngenalutho said:
“They want to privatise even ambulances and paramedics.”
Clement commented:
“You make me cry because I did everything when it was time to sign the contract, then everything went silent. 😭😭😭.”
Check out the TikTok video below:
3 other Briefly News stories related to fires
- Ekurhuleni firefighters rescued a Primrose family and their pets from a vehicle fire, and the quick action saved the Primrose home.
- Brave firefighters fought off a massive raging fire in the Table Mountain area for several hours, and the fire was unleashed in the Newlands Ravine area.
- Four babies, under the age of two, tragically died in a house fire in Mayfair, and it was believed that a heating device and illegal connections caused the fire.
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Source: Briefly News
