E-commerce has opened up new horizons for entrepreneurship, offering entrepreneurs the power to reach global audiences and build successful businesses on a digital scale.
At just 23 years old, Noluthando Gama is making a big name for herself in the world of e-commerce. She is the founder of Ecom Lifestyle, a mentorship platform that teaches people how to build online businesses using dropshipping and e-commerce, especially through platforms like Takealot and Makro Marketplace.
Starting Young and Becoming a Young CEO
Noluthando’s journey started when she was still in school. “I got into e-commerce and dropshipping during my matric year,” she shares. “I started by reselling clothes on social media. I would post items at a small profit and manage the orders myself. It was a simple side hustle, but it taught me the basics.”
After discovering the power of dropshipping, a business model where you sell products online without keeping stock, her interest grew. She learned how to use tools, platforms, and trends to run a successful business. From that learning experience, Ecom Lifestyle was born.
“My inspiration came from seeing young people around the world using social media and e-commerce to change their lives. I wanted to help others in South Africa the same,’ says Noluthando.
A Local Focus
What makes Ecom Lifestyle stand out is how practical and local it is. While most online business advice is aimed at international markets, Noluthando focuses on helping South Africans. “A lot of information out there doesn’t match how we do things here, ‘she explains. ” So I guide people step-by-step from registering as a seller, to finding winning products, to understanding logistics.’
She has spent six years building her own six-figure e-commerce business and now uses her knowledge to teach others. Her mentorship includes tools, supplier lists, marketing strategies, and product research tips. Most importantly, she builds a community of support.
“I don’t just teach and disappear,” Noluthando says. ‘I stay with my students, guide them, and help them grow.”
The Power of Takealot
One of the key platforms she teaches about is Takealot, South Africa’s largest online marketplace. “People don’t realise how powerful Takealot is. Unlike Shopify, where you must drive traffic yourself, Takealot already has millions of customers. It’s perfect for beginners,” she says.
She noticed that not many people were offering clear, easy-to-follow advice on how to succeed on Takealot, so she created a system that anyone can use, even with no experience or a big budget.
“Yes, anyone can start dropshipping, even with little money,” the young CEO says. “You just need internet access, the right guidance, and a willingness to learn.”
Through Ecom Lifestyle, Noluthando teaches essential skills like:
- How to find products that are in demand, solve problems, and face little competition.
- How to register as a seller on platforms like Takealot and Makro.
- How to price, list, and market your products.
- How to deal with logistics, customer service, and how to scale.
- How to use affiliate marketing to earn income without selling your products.
She also explains common mistakes, like thinking any product will sell on Takealot. ” You need proper research. Good pictures, descriptions, and pricing are key,” she advises. ”Success is not just about listing products; it’s about knowing how to stand out.”
Social media plays a big role in her strategy. Noluthando shares tips, results, and behind-the-scenes content to connect with her audience. “If you are not creating content, you are missing out on free marketing,” she says. Her videos and tips have helped many people understand e-commerce better and make their first sales.
Success Stories
One of her students is now earning six figures a month and has even opened a warehouse. “It’s amazing to see that kind of growth,” she says proudly. “It shows that with the right mindset and guidance, it’s possible.”
Noluthando is proud to call herself a “Young CEO”; for her, it’s not just a title but a mindset. “It’s about proving that age doesn’t stop you from leading, growing, and making a difference,” she says.
Since starting a business is not always easy or affordable, Noluthando Gama encourages others in South Africa that with the right information and constant effort, you can be successful at any time in life.
