Payslip of a Short Course Graduate Sparks Interest Online
- A post drew major attention by showing what opportunities could look like for someone who pursued further training after matric
- The creator shared surprising details using a payslip backdrop, which led to thousands of reactions and a wave of discussions online
- Many viewers debated whether short courses are worth it, especially for young people looking to take their first step into the working world
South Africans were intrigued after a TikTok video revealed what kind of job and salary a matriculant could secure with just a short course, sparking wide debate.
Source: TikTok
A TikTok video showing the potential earnings of someone who completed an AutoCAD short course after matric has drawn major attention online. The payslip belongs to an anonymous person who is currently working as a project developer in the lighting industry, basically involved in the renovations of buildings.
The clip, shared by TikTok creator @liferesetwithboni on 24 August 2025, has already gathered over 3,100 likes, nearly 800 comments, and more than 260 shares in just one day. The creator, Life Reset with Boni, responds to a viewer’s request for more information on career paths and salaries linked to short courses.
In the video, she uses a payslip as a backdrop while highlighting how a short qualification, such as an AutoCAD certificate, can open the door to job opportunities like project developer roles, which come with competitive salaries. "The basic salary is R40,000, with an additional commission of R42,000, bringing the net pay to R59,625 after UIF deductions.
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Many young South Africans face the challenge of limited opportunities after completing matric. For those unable to pursue a full degree due to financial or personal reasons, short courses have become a realistic stepping stone into the job market.
Salary transparency and motivation
The trend of salary transparency on TikTok has been gaining traction in South Africa, with many young professionals and content creators openly discussing what they earn in different industries. This has not only motivated job seekers but also opened honest conversations about career planning, financial expectations, and the value of upskilling.
Life Reset with Boni’s video resonated strongly with viewers who are keen to see real examples of how short courses can impact employability and income. Many users engaged in discussions about the practicality of AutoCAD, career growth potential, and the importance of continuously learning even after landing a first job.
Source: TikTok
South Africans reacted to the video
Mihle Thando wrote:
"I have an AutoCAD certificate from high school othi ngizame nam. 😭✋🏽"
Appli3d wrote:
"He’s lucky for that salary. 🙄 AutoCAD, any person can operate it within a week."
bongo_aries wrote:
"Me seeing this as a 4th year architecture student. 💀"
King_lesh2 wrote:
"I’m working for the wrong company."
Musawenkosi Mabaso wrote:
"I have this certificate. Where can I apply? Please help."
Kith wrote:
"I have all of this. 🤔"
Gilbertchalale wrote:
"Laughing cause wow, I have been an electrical draughtsman for 9 years, a senior for 4 of those years, then boom, a CAD operator takes my bonus home. 😂🤣🤣"
Check out the TikTok video below:
3 Briefly News stories related to salaries
- A 28-year-old content creator shared a viral video revealing she earns R2,300 monthly as a caregiver.
- A 23-year-old South African security officer proudly revealed his salary on social media with confidence.
- A viral Facebook video shared a professor’s payslip, showing a basic salary and net pay that left many stunned.
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Source: Briefly News
