“Take Career Risks”: Mzansi Woman’s Journey of Earning R4K to R40K Salary Inspires Mzansi

• A South African woman went viral on TikTok after sharing her journey of starting at a call centre, earning R4,000
• She explained how she took on temporary roles, grabbed opportunities, and eventually landed positions that boosted her salary
• Her story inspired netizens as she emphasised the importance of networking, building relationships, and never being afraid to start small

South Africans were left encouraged after a woman shared her journey of rising from a call centre salary of R4,000 to R40,000 by seizing every career opportunity that came her way.

A video posted by TikTok user @yourrecruiterza on 9 September 2025 went viral on TikTok after a South African woman shared her motivational career journey. She revealed how she began working at a call centre, earning just R4,000 per month, which at the time was her only guaranteed income. Despite the modest start, she believed in putting in the effort, building networks, and taking any opportunity that came her way. Within a week of posting, her story gained traction online, drawing in thousands of likes and comments from viewers who were inspired by her determination.

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In her story, the woman explained how she took advantage of a temporary opportunity when someone in the HR department went on maternity leave. She took on the talent acquisition role, which bumped her salary to R12,000 per month. It was a stepping stone that gave her valuable experience and confidence, as well as exposure to a different side of the corporate world. By taking this chance, she placed herself in a position to grow even further and demonstrate her abilities beyond her original call centre role. She wrote:

“Hi, I’m Elisa, and I’m your Recruiter, and this is my career story.”

Hard work and seizing opportunities opened doors

Not long after, she was contacted by another organisation and invited for an interview. She excelled during the process and secured the position, which came with a salary increase and better development opportunities. Just two months into that role, she received a raise, further proving that her skills and work ethic were being recognised. This progression set her apart as someone who understood the importance of staying focused and never settling.

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Her journey eventually led her to another opportunity within the talent department, where she achieved a salary of R40,000 per month, excluding commission. She used her platform to encourage others not to give up, reminding viewers that starting small doesn’t define the end of the story. Her video became a motivational beacon for South Africans who are currently job hunting or feeling stuck in their careers. The story highlighted the value of hard work, networking, and grabbing opportunities whenever they appear.

Mzansi reacted to the video

Lee wrote:

“How much do HR managers get paid?”

Documenting said:

“Love this! It’s so important to take career risks.”

nothando_ndl commented:

“Elisa? You are about to be my best friend, dear.”

Zawadi wrote:

“So good! 😭😍”

Check out the TikTok video below:

3 other Briefly News stories about salaries

• A cruise ship musician shared his age and income details on social media, revealing how much he earns at just 25 years old.
• A TikTok post showing the payslip of an experienced attorney has sparked lively discussion online.
• Tshwane Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya defended her decision to return the R270,000 salary payment she received from the City of Tshwane.

Source: Briefly News