We like stories of local businesses getting a helping hand from some of the big boys out there. After all, it isn’t easy in the current economic climate for budding entrepreneurs.

That’s why when we heard about Gumtree’s Success Story competition helping out the little guy we thought you would enjoy this feel-good story as much as us. Nompilo Nzimande, a 31-year-old from Durban’s KwaNdengezi Township , has managed to achieve success through Gumtree and her story is an inspiring one.

Nompilo had bought a bakkie via Gumtree three years ago, which sparked an interest in buying second hand goods. Being a single mother and sole breadwinner for a family of six, money was tight and Nompilo needed to get creative with her budget.  She started buying goods that she found on Gumtree, which she would refurbish and sell to community members in the KwaNdengezi Township, all via her mobile phone. “Gumtree is very user friendly and even gives you guidelines how to avoid being scammed,” said Nompilo. She used the money she earned to furnish her home, feed her family and even further her studies, completing a BCom in Accounting Science.

Durban’s very own “Gumtrepreneur” was crowned the Gumtree Success Story winner last week, rewarding Nompilo with R50 000 in cash.  Nompilo could hardly contain herself after she received the news that she’d won: “I was screaming my lungs out and there were tears of joy running down my cheeks!”

I suppose we don’t need more proof that thinking outside the box can be profitable but it never hurts to have our memories jogged. Then again, we do have Seth’s book lying around the office which shows the ease with which one can use a site such as Gumtree to pay the bills.

Like this guy.

Well played sister, you’ve put a smile on many a dial around these here parts. If you too want to make yourself a pretty penny (and maybe save yourself a few at the same time) Gumtree recently launched their own app (HERE) which takes the hassle out of the hustle.