“You must Own a Franchise”: Woman Celebrates Spur Career Growth, Mzansi Shows Her Love
- A woman shared a picture documenting her career rise at Spur through steady growth and dedication
- The post highlighted the value of commitment in the service industry and demonstrated how real progress often happens step by step
- Many South Africans celebrated her achievement and expressed admiration for her journey, seeing it as both relatable and motivating
- Briefly News reached out to Fortunate Dikgale, a waitress, who shared her thoughts on career growth in the restaurant industry and why stories of advancement inspire others
South Africans connected with the uplifting Spur career glow-up and celebrated the woman’s steady rise with genuine pride.

Source: TikTok
A TikTok user @193lerato posted a picture on 18 November 2025 showing a woman celebrating her career glow-up at Spur, and within a week, the post had gone viral across South Africa. The picture showed her collection of name tags, documenting her journey, which started as a brand ambassador, progressed through several hosting roles, and eventually led to her reaching the position of manager. The moment was shared to highlight how far she had come and why her hard work meant so much to her, especially in an industry where growth comes through dedication, long hours, and genuine commitment.

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Her progress spoke to the kind of determination that many people in the service industry understand, where roles demand patience, people skills, and the willingness to prove yourself over time. Spur is known for promoting internal growth, and her story reflected that culture, showing how consistent effort can lead to meaningful opportunities. For many people, it was also a reminder that career success does not always come through dramatic leaps but through steady steps that build confidence and skill. The comments mentioning that she deserves to own a franchise one day demonstrate just how much people believe in her potential and how her journey resonated beyond the picture itself.
Inspiring Spur's career growth journey
User @193lerato’s post gained massive traction quickly, reaching more than 40,000 likes and over 290 comments as people celebrated her achievement. South Africans appreciated seeing someone climb the ladder authentically, with the visual proof of each stage displayed in her name tags. The picture became a feel-good moment online, especially because it reminded people of the power of celebrating milestones, no matter how small or steady they may seem. The viral reach came from the combination of relatability, pride, and the joy of seeing someone rewarded for their perseverance.
People reacted with praise, encouragement, and admiration, with many sharing how inspired they felt after seeing her timeline of growth. The responses reflected a shared belief that this kind of dedication deserves recognition and that celebrating career achievements motivates others who are working their way up. Many expressed that her story represented the beauty of rising within a company and how community support makes the journey feel even more rewarding.
Fortunate spoke to Briefly News and highlighted how seeing someone rise through the ranks motivates others to work hard. She explained:
"It's really motivating to see someone start as a host and work their way up to manager. It shows that with hard work and dedication, you can achieve your goals in the restaurant industry. Seeing someone progress in their career is a great reminder that opportunities are available to those who are willing to put in the effort. It's a great example for other staff members to follow, and it shows that the company is invested in helping employees grow and develop their skills. In my experience, it's not just about the individual who has achieved success, but it's also about the team and the company that has supported them along the way."
Fortunate also reflected on the qualities needed to succeed in hospitality. She said:
"I think the qualities that help restaurant staff succeed include being willing to learn, having a good attitude, and being able to communicate well with others. It's also important to be proactive, take initiative, and be passionate about your work. In the restaurant industry, things can get chaotic, and you need to be able to think on your feet and adapt to changing situations. Being a team player and being willing to lend a hand when needed is also crucial. I think these qualities are essential for anyone looking to succeed in the industry, and they're qualities that I try to instil in my own team members."
Finally, she spoke about why such success stories resonate with people. In her words:
"Stories like this inspire people because they show that you can start at the bottom and work your way up with hard work and determination. Many people can relate to this, and it's great to see someone succeed in their career. In South Africa, where there are many challenges and obstacles, stories like this give people hope and motivation to pursue their dreams. It's a reminder that no matter where you come from or what your background is, you can achieve great things with the right mindset and support. I think that's why these stories resonate so strongly with people, they're a reminder that anything is possible with hard work and determination."

Source: TikTok
Here’s what Mzansi had to say
Vuyo Ta Sgibs wrote:
“Next step is the owner. Congrats, keep aiming.”
Ntsane asked:
“How long did it take?”
Leishem commented:
“From Lerato 2 to Lerato, the main character is my favourite progression, congrats, keep pushing.”

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Lehlohonolothoaba3 wrote:
“Congratulations, keep winning, girl.”
Lusi commented:
“Sisi, may you not be discouraged. You’re in a better position than an unemployed person… Progress is progress regardless.”
ILMW#1 wrote:
“I might not know you, but I’m extremely proud of you. Keep moving forward.”
BK commented:
“Congratulations, Lerato, your hard work eventually paid off.”
YvngbreezyYt wrote:
“So it’s not crazy to start a business and become your own manager if this took 11 years.”
Havi_R commented:
“Well done, it’s not an easy road, I know how difficult it can be.”
Arthur Semenya wrote:
“I hope you own a franchise one day.”
Check out the TikTok video below:
3 Other Briefly News stories related to Spur
- A boy named Connor received a positive response from several people when they heard him sing one of Beyoncé's songs at a Spur in Cape Town.
- A little boy became a viral sensation on social media once again after thoroughly enjoying Spur's viral birthday song.
- A woman shared a video showcasing her incredible bill total of less than R5 at Spur, achieved by redeeming in-house vouchers.
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Source: Briefly News

