Morgenster matriculant raises R10K by selling sweets and pretzels

A Morgenster matriculant raised R10 000 in just six months by selling sweets and pretzels.

His goal was not only to cover the cost of his matric ball and travel expenses but also to help provide for his family. His efforts have earned him a bursary to pursue further studies.

Rudolph Lekay, 19, began selling small packets of sweets for R2 and R3, and pretzels for R2, in Grade 9. After a break, he revived the idea in December and continued until April. Each morning, between 5am and 6am, he sold on his way to school before commuting from Town Centre to Ravensmead, where he attends Florida High. His goal was to ease the financial pressure on his mother and cover his own matric and travel expenses.

He described his business as a practical way to support his family and earn his own income.

Rudolph is originally from Morgenster in Beacon Valley. He briefly lived in Ravensmead but continued attending Florida High School to maintain stability and routine.

“I didn’t want to interrupt my rhythm,” he said.

He is the youngest of four siblings. His older sister, Blanche Bell, died in 2012. His matric ball, which will take place on Friday, October 3, will fall on what would have been her birthday.

Rudolph once played soccer for Morgenster United Football Club, a local community team. These days, he focuses on daily push-ups to stay healthy and disciplined.

His mother, Rosaline Lekay, 64, a pensioner, said she hadn’t anticipated just how dedicated he would be.

“I have taught him much in this life, and his growing business shows that he listens to my advice. He must continue this even if I am gone. I am very proud of him. He must dream big. His future is bright,” she said.

Rudolph’s efforts gained attention on social media after a video of him selling sweets went viral. His story also reached the Alfeco Foundation, which awarded him a bursary to pursue tertiary education anywhere in South Africa.

The foundation, founded by businessman Sachin Ahuja, focuses on education, food security, youth and women’s development, environmental conservation, and social welfare.

The Plainsman reached out to The Alfeco Foundation for comment, but at the time of going to print, had not received a response.

Rudolph plans to study e-commerce and hopes to one day start his own business.

Florida High School principal Cynthia Loxton praised his growth and dedication.

“I got to know him through a disciplinary matter, like many other pupils. His mother came to school that same day, and after that, we never had to call him in again,” she said.

She said Rudolph repeated Grade 11 and told her: “If I didn’t repeat, things wouldn’t have turned out this way.” She believes this showed maturity and discipline. “He raised the money not just for his matric ball but also for his traveling fees. He wanted to relieve the pressure on his mother. He has my respect.”

She said he attends school consistently despite living far away.

“He doesn’t make excuses. He is resilient. He doesn’t look like his problems. He is well-dressed, well-groomed, and he motivates his peers and even us as teachers. His circumstances do not define him.”

The Tapout Foundation also took notice of his story.

TikTok influencer Ashwin Martin, known as Mr Tapout, visited Rudolph at school to help arrange support.

“We reached out to organisations and managed to sort out his matric ball in one day,” said Byron De Villiers of the foundation.

“We also assisted three other pupils at Florida High and have stayed in contact with his mother. We aim to help 70 more learners this year.”

Rudolph said his mother played a big role in his outlook on life.

“She has helped me so much, especially with my mindset. If you set a goal, you may not get it instantly, but one step at a time, you can reach it. I look forward to my future.”