Beads, Books and Big dreams: How Gcwaliswa is building her future one bead at a time.

Beads, Books and Big dreams: How Gcwaliswa is building her future one bead at a time.

By Nokuphila Mahlalela 

Mbabane- who said you cannot mix books, beads and content? a young woman full of creativity, ambition, and determination currently a third-year student, (doing her internship) inLimkokwing university of creative technology in Eswatini, studying for an associate degree in Journalism and media. Gcwalisile Mhlabane better known as beads by Gcwaliswa is not just a student, she is also a business owner, running a side hustle she calls beads by Gcwaliswa, on top of that she is a model. 

Gcwaliswa smiling for the camera. Cred by Nosipho Mabuza 

Her business focuses on creating customized beaded jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and lanyards. Each item is handmade and designed to suit the customer’s personal style. This has allowed her to build a unique brand that is both creative and personal. “Beads by Gcwaliswa allows me to express myself and connect with people.” she says. 

Gcwaliswa started her business three years ago with only E50. She learned how to bead by watching YouTube and TikTok tutorials, making her almost completely self-taught. From thesesimple beginnings she has turned her business into something she is truly proud of. The inspiration to start a business came from the need of a financial independence as a student. Gcwaliswa faced financial struggles and wanted to support herself without always depending on her family. “I did not want to keep asking for money,” she explains. “I wanted to be responsible for my own needs.” This strong desire to take control of her finances led her to start making and selling beaded jewelry.

Some of the beaded jewelry made by Gcwaliswa. Cred by Gcwaliswa

Although managing school and business at the same time is not easy, Gcwaliswa has find a way to make it work. During the week she attend her classes during the day and works on her jewelry in the evenings. On weekends, she delivers orders and manages her business. She creates content of herself making the jewelry from scratch until she is done. She also uses WhatsApp to stay in touch with customers, making it easier to communicate and promote products. Even as a young girl Gcwaliswa showed signs of being an entrepreneur. She used to sell popcorn in primary school and later tried modelling in 2022, showing that she has always had the passion to create and hustle. These early experiences helped her grow the confidence to start her own business. 

One of the biggest challenges she faced is time management. School demands a lot of attention, and so does her business. Balancing both require careful planning and discipline, but she keeps going because she loves what she does. “It’s not always easy, but I have learned how to manage my time better,” she says. Gcwaliswa mainly markets her products on Facebook and TikTok, where she posts pictures and videos of her work. This online presence has helped her grow her customer based and showcase her talent. What makes Beads by Gcwaliswa different is the customization, each piece is made to order and personalized to the customer’s request.  

a happy customer showcasing her jewelry. Cred by Setsabile Hlophe 

In the future Gcwaliswa dreams of expanding the business. She hopes to introduce new products and one day open her own store, where she can sell jewelry and beading materials. Her goal is to make beads by Gcwaliswa a one stop-shop for beaded accessories. For Gcwaliswa this business in not just for making money, it’s something she truly loves. “I want to do this for a long time,” she says with a smile. 

“Believe in yourself, start small, and use social media. There will be ups and downs but do not give up.” This was her advice to others willing to start businesses. Gcwaliswa is a perfect example of how passion, hard work, and creativity can turn a small idea into a big dream. One bead at a time.