"A Role Model": Content Creator Shares Bonus Earnings She Received From Facebook, Inspires Mzansi

• A screenshot about online earnings sparked renewed interest in content creation as a possible income path for many South Africans
• The viral Facebook post resonated because it reflected consistency paying off rather than overnight fame
• The transparency on the amount opened up a conversation about digital work becoming more than just a hobby
• Briefly News reached out to Jayla, a content creator, to gain insight into how creators can build sustainable income through social media

A screenshot was enough to make people rethink what’s possible online, not as a shortcut, but as something built through patience and consistency. It shifted the conversation from dreams of virality to the reality of sustained effort.

South African content creator Tsontso Zandile Ndlovu inspired many after sharing screenshots of her Facebook bonus earnings online. The images were posted on 5 January 2026, shortly after she reached one million followers on the platform. The screenshots showed earnings accumulated between 23 December 2025 and 3 January 2026, totalling $6,000. Converted to rands, the amount comes to approximately R99,189.72. Tsontso noted that this was the only bonus that mattered to her, highlighting the milestone as a personal achievement.

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Content creation has become a growing income stream in South Africa, especially as traditional employment remains unstable for many. Platforms like Facebook now offer monetisation tools that reward consistency, engagement and reach. However, success often takes years of unpaid effort, learning algorithms and building loyal audiences. For many creators, seeing real financial returns validates the work done behind the scenes.

Social media income in South Africa

The screenshots resonated because they showed tangible results rather than promises. Many aspiring creators related to the grind and uncertainty that comes with posting regularly. The timing, early in the year, also aligned with people looking for new income opportunities.

Mzansi expressed admiration and motivation, with many saying the post encouraged them to start or take content creation seriously. Others saw it as proof that digital careers are possible with persistence. Tsontso Zandile Ndlovu has been consistent with sharing content, and while many said they were inspired, they said her earnings are a reflection of how hard she works.

Jayla explained to Briefly News that one of the most effective ways for creators to maximise their earnings is by diversifying their income streams rather than relying on a single platform. She said:

“One of the best ways creators can maximise earnings is by not relying on just one income stream. Using platform bonuses alongside brand collaborations, livestreams, and personal products helps create more stability.”

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She added that understanding performance metrics and leaning into content that resonates with audiences plays a key role in long-term success. She added:

“Understanding what content performs well and leaning into that also makes a big difference."

According to Jayla, consistency, engagement, and a strong sense of niche are essential pillars for growth in the creator economy.

“Consistency, engagement, and niche focus are all very important. Posting consistently builds trust, engagement helps grow and retain your audience, and having a clear niche makes it easier to attract the right followers and brands.”

In closing, Jayla encouraged aspiring creators to remain patient and authentic as they grow their platforms.

“My advice to aspiring creators is to stay patient and authentic. Growth takes time, but focusing on value, showing up regularly, and being yourself goes a long way. Treat content creation as a long-term journey and keep learning as platforms evolve.”

Here’s what Mzansi said

Idontcare wrote:

“You are definitely my role model. 🥹🥹”

Mthobisi Dlamini asked:

“How do you earn from Facebook?”

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Hlengiwe Radebe commented:

“One thing about you is you put in the work, so deserving. ❤️”

Peeletso Masome commented:

“Please give some tips... I just lost mine of $20.”

The Phayo Mavimbela commented:

“Facebook is working for you, babes. 🥹♥️🔥”

Mmakgotso Moeng commented:

“Congratulations. 🎊 I can't even finish $3. 🥱🤣”

Cee Kay commented:

“Ninety-nine thousand four hundred sixteen rands 98 cents. 😭”

Check out the Facebook post below:

3 Other Briefly News stories related to content creation

• A South African creator revealed she earned a pretty impressive amount of money from Facebook in just two weeks after activating monetisation on her account.
• A creator sparked conversation after sharing proof of his latest X payout, offering a rare glimpse into how creator revenue sharing looks in real terms.
• A woman posted how much she made after monetising her YouTube channel for six months, and South Africans wanted in on the action.

Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.

Source: Briefly News