In a world where rising living costs are squeezing African households, one South Africa mother based in Durban has transformed her personal frugality into a powerful force for community upliftment. Meet Ncumisa Ndelu, a 48-year-old whose determination to stretch her family budget ignited 1 Family, 1 Stockpile, a thriving Facebook community now connecting over 800,000 members. 

What began as shared savvy shopping tips among friends has blossomed into a nationwide financial empowerment network. This effort is enabling women across South Africa and Nigeria to save significantly, launch their own ventures, and cultivate financially resilient futures.

The start of a community

Driven by a desire to help African women navigate economic pressures, former journalist and communications professional Ncumisa Ndelu launched 1 Family, 1 Stockpile in 2016. Her initial concept was simple: to share effective shopping hacks, budgeting strategies, and the benefits of strategic stockpiling.

The group rapidly became a trusted “sisterhood,” fostering financial literacy and providing robust community support. Today, it stands as a vital platform where women exchange savings techniques, share valuable deals and discounts, celebrate their financial achievements, and encourage each other towards better money management – all grounded in empowerment, education, and shared experiences.

A game-changer in her journey

A significant turning point in Ncumisa’s journey was discovering Temu, a global e-commerce platform that unlocked unprecedented savings for her household. Ironically, her introduction to the app began with a cautionary post about international deliveries. Intrigued, she decided to try it herself, ordering security lights following a home break-in.

“Once I received my first delivery, I was hooked,” she recalls. “I placed my second order less than two weeks later.”

From everyday household essentials to art supplies, school materials, and beauty products, this direct-from-factory marketplace became her key to unlocking savings. One purchase alone yielded savings of over R5,000, propelling her towards a research-driven approach to online shopping.

According to a recent survey, 46% of South African respondents report saving more than half of their shopping budget by using Temu, with nearly 40% making purchases on the platform at least once a month.

Stretching Rands, growing futures

Ncumisa has turned everyday budgeting into a powerful tool for growth, both at home and in her community. By making smarter, more affordable purchases, she’s been able to invest in her children’s education, fuel their creative passions with art supplies, and support her long-standing mission to feed the homeless. Crucially, this approach has fostered financial literacy in her children, evolving from simple piggy banks to daily lessons in budgeting, comparative shopping, and mindful spending.

This spirit of empowerment extends into her online community. Starting with just 50 members, it has surged into a nationwide network of over 800,000 women who share practical savings advice,  celebrate milestones like paying off debt or buying a first home, and offering each other unwavering support. “The group thrives on trust,” Ncumisa explains. “When we share what’s helped us, it empowers someone else to thrive.”

Ncumisa shares her top 5 budgeting tips:

1. Establish a proactive household budget: Create a standing budget well before payday, viewing it as a dynamic document that evolves with your family’s needs.

2. Involve children in the budgeting process: Cultivate financial literacy early by having your children participate. “In my household, the kids “pitch” for what they want the budget to be spent on, learning valuable negotiation and prioritisation skills.”

3. Prioritise essential deductions: Aim to let your salary remain untouched on payday. Allow debit orders for crucial expenses to run first, then manage the remaining funds for utilities and other needs.

4. Active saving and investing: Your budget should always include dedicated line items for savings, whether for short-term goals, long-term, or significant purchases. Similarly, make a point to allocate funds for investments, ensuring your money works for you.

5. Seek out sales and rewards yourself: Consciously try to avoid paying full price by actively looking for sales and discounts. “This is where platforms like Temu have really helped me. Budget for those personal rewards, whether it’s a small treat or a bigger experience like travel. Recognising your hard work is a vital part of a sustainable budget!”

From budget tips to national recognition

Ncumisa’s  journey from sharing simple saving tips to being recognised as Daily Maverick’s 2023 Businessperson of the Year is a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership. Her remarkable ability to connect personal financial choices with broader community upliftment has ignited a powerful wave of economic empowerment, particularly among women. 

This growing community has empowered thousands of women to take control of their finances, helping them become more secure, break free from debt, and feel confident in managing their money day-to-day. This is about more than just saving a few rands; it’s about building a future where women don’t just survive, they thrive.

Ncumisa is leading that charge, using her own experience to show what’s possible with determination and the right tools. Through her example, she’s not only creating lasting wealth for her family but also passing down essential financial skills to the next generation – proving that true empowerment begins at home.

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

A partnership has been entered into between Airtel Africa Plc and SpaceX to make high-speed internet services accessible to customers in the region through Starlink.

With this collaboration, Airtel Africa will further enhance its next-generation satellite connectivity offerings and augment connectivity for enterprises, businesses, and socio-economic communities like schools, health centres in even the most rural parts of Africa. Airtel Africa will also explore rural coverage expansion through cellular backhauling.

“We remain deeply committed to our vision to enrich the lives of people of Africa. This partnership with SpaceX is a significant step to demonstrate our continued commitment to advancing Africa’s digital economy through strategic investments and partnerships.

“Next-generation satellite connectivity will ensure that every individual, business, and community have reliable and affordable voice and data connectivity even in the most remote and currently under-served parts of Africa,” the chief executive of Airtel Africa, Mr Sunil Taldar, said.

Also commenting, the Vice President of Starlink Business Operations at SpaceX. Chad Gibbs, said, “We are very excited to work with Airtel to bring the transformative benefits of Starlink to the African people in new and innovative ways.

“Starlink is available in more than 20 African markets and this agreement with Airtel highlights how, once licensed, Starlink welcomes the opportunity to join forces with important industry leaders to ensure as many people as possible can benefit from Starlink’s presence.

“The team at Airtel has played a pivotal role in Africa’s telecom story, so working with them to complement our direct offering across Africa makes great sense for our business.”

SpaceX has acquired requisite licenses in nine out of 14 countries within Airtel Africa’s footprint. Operating licenses for the other five countries are under process.

Airtel Africa and SpaceX say they will continue to explore other areas to promote digital inclusion in the continent as well as SpaceX’s ability to utilize and benefit from Airtel’s ground network infrastructure and other capabilities in Africa.

Choosing memorial jewelry is never just about style—it’s about emotion, remembrance, and keeping a loved one close to your heart. If you’re looking for a way to hold on to someone who meant the world to you, you might have wondered: What kind of urn necklace is right for me?
With so many materials, designs, and personalization options out there, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry—you’re not alone. This guide is here to help you navigate the most meaningful factors in selecting an urn necklace that honors both your loved one and your personal style.

Understanding the Purpose of Urn Necklaces

What Makes an Urn Necklace Special? An urn necklace is a discreet piece of jewelry that holds a small portion of ashes or other memorial keepsakes like a lock of hair, dried flowers, or even sand from a favorite place. Designed with sentiment and intention, these necklaces offer a tangible way to feel close to someone you’ve lost.
The best urn necklaces are not only symbolic, but also durable and beautiful enough to wear every day. They blend seamlessly into your wardrobe while carrying a deeply personal story within.

Choosing the Right Material

Material matters—not just for aesthetics, but for longevity. Here are some popular options you’ll encounter:

• Stainless Steel: Durable, budget-friendly, and hypoallergenic, but may lack the luxurious feel of precious metals.
• Sterling Silver: A timeless choice with a classic shine, though it may require occasional polishing.
• 14K Gold: If you’re looking for something elegant and enduring, 14K gold urn necklaces are a stunning option. They resist tarnishing, carry long-term value, and offer warmth and brilliance that silver or steel can’t quite match.

If you’re gifting the necklace or planning to wear it daily, investing in high-quality materials like 14K gold ensures your keepsake stands the test of time—both physically and emotionally.

Finding a Style That Speaks to You

Classic, Minimalist, or Sentimental? Urn necklaces come in a wide range of styles, from bold statement pieces to minimal pendants you can layer with everyday jewelry. Think about your—or your recipient’s—style preferences:

• Hearts, teardrops, and crosses offer universal symbolism and emotional appeal.
• Cylinder-shaped pendants often appear sleek and modern.
• Birthstone or gem-accented urn necklaces add color and personality.

When selecting a style, consider how “obvious” the urn aspect should be. Some prefer a pendant that clearly honors a loved one, while others seek something more subtle.

Add Meaning Through Personalization

Making the Necklace Truly Yours

One of the most beautiful things about memorial jewelry is the ability to personalize it. Here are a few ideas to make it unique:

• Engrave a name, date, or quote that holds special meaning.
• Choose a birthstone to represent the person or moment you want to remember.
• Select a custom shape or symbol that resonates with your relationship.

Many pieces from YFN Jewelry offer custom engraving and birthstone options, so you can create a tribute that’s both intimate and elegant.

Recommended: 10K Gold Heart Cut Cubic Zirconia Urn Necklace for Ashes

If you’re looking for a gift that blends subtle beauty with heartfelt symbolism, the 10K Gold Heart Cut Cubic Zirconia Urn Necklace for Ashes is a top pick.

Designed with a delicate heart-shaped cubic zirconia stone, it sparkles brilliantly against the warm glow of 10K gold. Its pendant functions as a hidden urn—offering a discreet way to carry ashes while looking just like a fine piece of jewelry. The chain is dainty yet durable, making it perfect for everyday wear without sacrificing elegance.
Whether you’re gifting it for a birthday, memorial, or graduation, this necklace is a touching way to honor someone’s memory.

When to Give an Urn Necklace as a Gift

You might assume that urn necklaces are only suitable after a recent loss, but they’re actually meaningful for many life moments:

• Birthdays: Honor someone who passed on the birthday of a surviving loved one.
• Graduations: Offer spiritual comfort to someone entering a new chapter without a parent or guardian.
• Mother’s Day or Father’s Day: A powerful way to remember and cherish.
• Anniversaries of passing: Show you remember and care deeply.

Memorial jewelry is both comforting and personal—a heartfelt reminder that your loved one is never far away.

Tips for Wearing and Caring for Urn Necklaces

If you plan to wear your urn necklace daily, make sure to:

• Remove it before showering or swimming to protect the integrity of the seal.
• Use a soft cloth to clean it regularly.
• Store it in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Most urn necklaces, including those from YFN Jewelry, come with secure screw-top or threaded closures to keep ashes safe. Still, it’s best to check the seal occasionally.

Why YFN Jewelry?

YFN Jewelry specializes in high-quality, meaningful pieces crafted from genuine materials like sterling silver and 14K gold. Their urn necklaces are thoughtfully designed to look like fine jewelry while offering the emotional comfort of memorial keepsakes.
Whether you’re looking for minimalist elegance or engraved personalization, YFN has a wide collection that caters to every taste and occasion.

Choosing the right urn necklace is a deeply personal decision—one that balances sentiment, craftsmanship, and everyday beauty. Whether you’re buying for yourself or a loved one, focusing on materials like 14K Gold Necklaces, selecting a meaningful design, and considering personalization will guide you toward a piece that truly honors your memories.
To explore more elegant and heartfelt options, visit YFN Jewelry and discover the piece that feels just right.