Social media has many uses in the digital age. Some rely on it for information while others use it for various sources of income.

Three locals share their story on how the power of sharing and creating content has opened up a world of opportunity for them. Bargain hunter and social media entrepreneur, Laetitia Fourie, founded Bargain Buddy, an online platform she uses to share bargain finds. “

I also use this platform to share my own bargain shopping, my own personal style as well as affordable styling and decor inspiration ideas. I also often engage in collaborations where content is created in exchange for product,” Fourie explained.

She added that her Instagram page has gained a following of nearly 50 000 followers who engage “positively with the content and often express their gratitude for sharing bargain finds”.

Fourie said high interest rates, increases in fuel prices and living costs, over-indebtedness, and job losses are contributing factors to consumers having less money to spend.

“This requires income to be spent wisely on essentials and exercising discipline when it comes to spending money on non-essentials. There has never been a time more deserving of weighing up options.” That is where creators like herself step in and make it easier for consumers.

Lineo Panyane, a 29-year-old Digital Content Creator who has a deep appreciation for beautiful spaces, said she realised the value of sharing her experiences on social media when she started furnishing her home.

“I launched my Instagram page, @ home_withdinny in February 2022 and my audience has been growing steadily since then. I often refer to myself as ‘The Ultimate Plug’. I enjoy sharing the latest and trendiest items from our local homeware stores and creating lifestyle content (restaurant recommendations) in Bloemfontein,” explained Panyane.

She encouraged locals not to compromise on quality when exploring cheaper options. Often, people share or tag local businesses that have provided them with satisfactory results on their social media that can benefit the business in ways that could not have been possible before the digital age.

Pierce van Heerden is a local, seasoned professional photographer and a small business owner who can attest that tagging or plugging on social media can be important for their business for many reasons that include increased visibility, credibility, trust, and networking and collaboration opportunities.

“85% of my clients are through referrals – the Plug Culture is real and it is VITAL,” he expressed.

The term “plug” has become more well-known amongst social media users who share or tag businesses and service providers like Van Heerden, while creating careers for entrepreneurs as it did for Fourie and Panyane who have used it as a tool to create a following while helping small businesses grow.

Gypseenia Lion
gypseenia@mahareng.co.za