Graduate Wins Hearts After Returning to Work as a Cashier in regalia on the Same Day

• A young graduate shared a TikTok of herself working at a supermarket right after her ceremony, which impressed many
• The video highlighted the reality that graduation doesn’t always lead to immediate career opportunities
• Viewers praised her dedication, saying that she represented many young people balancing work and future aspirations

South Africans admired a graduate who returned to her cashier job after her ceremony, showing determination and humility in balancing her journey.

Not every graduation ends in instant career success, and one young woman proved that hard work does not stop at the ceremony. A video posted by TikTok user @lirastud20 on 2 September 2025 showed her still in her graduation regalia, working behind the till at Boxer supermarket. Within a day, it racked up over 61,000 likes as viewers praised her determination.

In the clip, she explained that she had to head back to work right after graduating, highlighting a reality many young people face in South Africa. While graduation marks the end of one chapter, it doesn’t always guarantee a job in the field of study. For some, it means returning to current work while searching for opportunities to match their new qualifications.

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Balancing dreams and responsibilities

The response from netizens was overwhelmingly positive. People applauded her dedication, with many saying that her choice to go back to work showed resilience and responsibility. Some pointed out that her story represented countless graduates who balance jobs while waiting for the right career break.

The video resonated with many netizens because it blended celebration with reality. It was a moment of pride wrapped in humility, and it served as a reminder that success is often a journey rather than a single event. Her story encouraged others to remain focused, even when their paths take longer to unfold.

Mzansi reacts to the video

Anastercia Mochaba wrote:

"So no one is going to talk about how she received the money from the customer with both her hands? 👐 😇"

Alex Mogorosi wrote:

"They should have given you a day off. Phela, that was the day, or you were the one who insisted? ☺️😊"

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Felicia hlogiiy wrote:

"I saw you ko Boxer ya ko Megacity. 🥹❤️ Congratulations. 🥳"

Khensani Rams wrote:

"Ona le shoe off nyana ha bona batho, congratulations, stranger. ❤️"

Oscar RSA wrote:

"Manager looking at you. 👀"

Megokgo Yaka wrote:

"They should also make a career day for retail employees to come wearing their gowns and belts. 🥰🥰"

Nthabiseng Musi501 wrote:

"Well done! Congratulations, don't feel bad, I also did not have a graduation party after. I went back to my normal life!"

Pearl wrote:

"I graduated on Monday, and I had to be at work on Tuesday."

Check out the TikTok video below:

3 other Briefly News stories about graduates

• A graduate named Khayakazi Mngaza discovered her passion while studying commerce at the University of Cape Town after graduating.
• A young graduate, Sikelelwa Ntswahlana, went viral for showcasing her impressive achievements in 2025.
• Doctor Thobeka Ntini-Makununika, a PHD Graduate, began working as a part-time domestic worker at just 13 years old.

Source: Briefly News