From taxi rank to top bursary: Rudolph Lekay finally tastes sweet success

RUDOLPH Lekay from Mitchell’s Plain began selling sweets and snacks at a local taxi rank to fund his matric dance, determined not to place additional financial strain on his mother. 

What started as a small side hustle quickly revealed an entrepreneurial drive that gained attention on TikTok, public support and has ultimately led to mentorship and a bursary to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce in Strategic Management.

Growing up in Mitchell’s Plain, Lekay watched his mother work tirelessly to provide for him. Rather than add to her financial burden, he decided to earn the money to make his matric dance a memorable one by selling sweets around his neighbourhood. 

Footage of Lekay’s early morning hustle, showing him waking before dawn to sell sweets and chips at a busy taxi rank, circulated on TikTok and caught the attention of the public. 

It was Lekay’s consistent determination that led Raa-iq Solomons, Senior Student Advisor at Emeris, to reach out and offer guidance.

“When I first came across Rudolph, I could see the sincerity and determination of a young man who didn’t grow up with much. Reaching matric is already a huge milestone in our communities,” he said.

Solomons saw someone who had both ambition and drive, but who lacked access to the guidance and financial support needed to take the next step. Solomons began advising Lekay on study options and connecting him with bursary opportunities, a pathway that eventually led to support from the Alfeco Foundation.

The Alfeco Foundation and Emeris are now working together to support Lekay on his journey. 

The foundation will be covering 50% of his tuition along with his study material, accommodation and food expenses for the next three years. Emeris will ensure that the balance of his fees are met.

With these opportunities available to him, Lekay enrolled for a Bachelor of Commerce in Strategic Management at Vega School at Emeris Cape Town City.

As the first in his family to pursue tertiary studies, he is determined to show that circumstances do not define future potential. 

“I want to see the youth of Mitchell’s Plain not be ashamed of where they come from and prevent their circumstances from determining their future,” he said.

“I plan to use my practical experiences while studying by applying the knowledge I learn and approaching projects with my problem-solving skills,” he added. 

Alongside his coursework, Lekay continues to run small ventures to test and refine what he learns in real time.

Cape Times