“Happy Birthday Beyonce”: Unemployed Student Goes Viral for Grocery Spending Reveal

• A university student’s grocery spending video went viral on TikTok, sparking discussions about student budgeting amid rising food costs in South Africa
• Online grocery apps are increasingly popular among students, despite concerns about impulsive spending
• Mixed reactions emerged as South Africans debated the student's choices and financial priorities.

A university student has sparked significant online debate after revealing her monthly grocery expenses, despite being unemployed. Posting under the username @arweneybers on 18 May 2026, Arwene shared a TikTok video showcasing her previous Checkers Sixty60 grocery orders, which included premium items such as bacon, croissants, and smoothies.

In an unexpected twist, her haul defied the typical image of a student’s budget, featuring luxurious foods instead of simple staples. The student’s video quickly gained traction, with many South Africans expressing surprise at her apparent indulgence, suggesting the basket resembled a ‘soft life starter pack’ rather than that of an unemployed student navigating university life.

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Are online grocery deliveries a budget risk?

The clip highlights the broader issue of rising food costs in South Africa, prompting viewers to question how students manage to afford such expensive grocery habits. Comments ranged from scepticism about her choices to sympathy for the student’s budgeting realities. One user remarked, “What a tight budget,” while another quipped, “Girl you gotta be kidding.”

Moreover, the video illustrates the growing trend of online grocery delivery among young South Africans, as apps like Sixty60 provide convenience and discounts. However, this has ignited discussions about the potential for impulse buying and the impact of premium product choices on financial stability.

While some viewers defended Arwene, suggesting that spending priorities vary, they pointed out that many students live at home or receive financial support, impacting their budgetary flexibility. The reactions encapsulate the complexities of student life and the financial challenges faced by many across the nation.

Check out the TikTok video below:

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Mzansi says her groceries are costly

Siyamanga Jonga wrote:

“You don’t drink water?”

Sagg.luv wrote:

“Show us the receipt.”

Sno wrote:

“Guys obviously this is sarcasm. 😭”

Boitshoko Mo wrote:

“What a tight budget.”

Adriano Titus wrote:

“Idk if this is sarcasm or…”

Tumi wrote:

“Very reasonable, I guess you were working on a tight budget.”

Sipho Khoza wrote:

“Girl you gotta be kidding.”

3 Other Briefly News stories about university students

• TikToker shows less than R2,500 grocery haul meant to last a month, which had many people online asking about whether it’s realistic in 2026.
• An Afrikaans woman’s grocery haul video gives South African viewers a peek into a typical household shopping list, leaving many impressed.
• An Instagram user's R6,000 grocery haul fuels debate with Instagram users, highlighting the rising costs of living.

Source: Briefly News