black tax The term Black Tax is often associated with professionals, entrepreneurs and those who are well off in their family circle and are generally expected to ease the ‘burden’ of their families.
This month is often a time to celebrate the potential, resilience and ambitions of South Africa's young people. But for many, it is also a reminder of the responsibilities they carry long before securing their first full-time job.
While black tax is commonly associated with young professionals supporting their families after entering the workforce, some South Africans begin carrying that burden much earlier — while they are still students.
A student at the Tshwane University of Technology says she has been helping to support her family since her first year of university, highlighting the financial pressures many young people face as they try to build a future for themselves while contributing to the wellbeing of those at home.
"I started sending money in my first year when I received funding. At first, it was occasional, sending money mid-month for bread and so on," she said.
