By Tokiso TKay Nthebe
Dreams — we all have them. Some are bold and audacious, others almost impossible to comprehend. Yet, even when they scare us, we hold onto them because they remind us of what’s possible.
For years, one of my biggest dreams was to become a When a Dream Delays, Not Denies
I first applied in 2017 and didn’t make it. I was disappointed, but something in me refused to give up. I kept the dream on my list of goals. When the 2019 applications opened, I went all in — armed with experience, humility, and a renewed sense of purpose.
But there was one practical challenge I couldn’t ignore: how would I survive seven weeks without pay?
Most employers wouldn’t offer paid leave for such an extended period. If I wanted to make my dream happen, I needed a financial plan.
“If your dreams don’t scare you, they’re not big enough.”
— Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Taking unpaid leave wasn’t just a career decision — it was a financial test of discipline, creativity, and foresight. It forced me to re-evaluate my relationship with money and the way I planned for opportunities.— part of the U.S. Government’s flagship program for young African leaders. I would daydream about the call from the U.S. Embassy in Lesotho, the excitement of boarding a plane at Moshoeshoe I International Airport, and spending seven transformative weeks learning alongside some of Africa’s brightest young minds.
It felt so vivid that I could almost touch it.
But life had other plans — at least the first time around.
When a Dream Delays, Not Denies
I first applied in 2017 and didn’t make it. I was disappointed, but something in me refused to give up. I kept the dream on my list of goals. When the 2019 applications opened, I went all in — armed with experience, humility, and a renewed sense of purpose.
But there was one practical challenge I couldn’t ignore: how would I survive seven weeks without pay?
Most employers wouldn’t offer paid leave for such an extended period. If I wanted to make my dream happen, I needed a financial plan.
“If your dreams don’t scare you, they’re not big enough.”
— Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Taking unpaid leave wasn’t just a career decision — it was a financial test of discipline, creativity, and foresight. It forced me to re-evaluate my relationship with money and the way I planned for opportunities.
Preparing for Unpaid Leave: My Financial Strategy
1. Building the Plan
After submitting my application in October 2018, I began planning how to fund my seven-week absence. I listed every monthly commitment:
☑️ Home and personal loans
☑️ Utilities and insurance premiums
☑️ Savings and investment debit orders
There was no way I’d let debit orders bounce or my credit record suffer. I needed to provide for everything — responsibly and intentionally.
2. Leveraging My Salary and Bonus
At the time, I worked in asset management and was fortunate to receive a performance bonus in March 2019. As tempting as it was to use the money elsewhere, I chose to allocate part of it toward my unpaid leave fund. I also redirected a portion of my monthly savings into that pool.
This decision wasn’t easy, but it reminded me that sacrifice is often the price of growth.
Financial discipline isn’t about deprivation — it’s about alignment with your goals.
3. Maximising Side Income
To close the gap, I leaned into my side hustles:
☑️ Part-time lecturing – Although demanding, it provided additional income that went straight into my unpaid leave fund.
🎤 MC’ing events – Turning my public speaking passion into income was empowering. It taught me to monetise my skills and value my time.
🧊 Selling ice – Yes, even this small hustle contributed meaningfully. The $26 I earned helped cover one of my debit orders. It was a humbling reminder that every cent counts.
Each of these income streams — no matter how small — became part of a bigger story: the power of financial diversification.
What I Learned From Taking Unpaid Leave
Those seven weeks away were life-changing. Beyond the professional development, the program gave me space to reflect, reconnect, and reimagine what I wanted for my life and career.
But the real lessons were financial:
💡 Always build an emergency fund. Experts recommend saving 3–6 months’ worth of expenses, but I’m now aiming for 8–10. Life is unpredictable, and preparation gives you freedom.
💡 Increase your sources of income. Relying on one income stream is risky in a fast-changing economy.
💡 Have a solid financial plan. Opportunities don’t always give notice — your money should always be ready before your dream calls.
The True Value of Taking the Leap
Looking back, taking unpaid leave was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It was uncomfortable, yes — but growth rarely happens in comfort zones.
The Mandela Washington Fellowship wasn’t just a career highlight; it was a turning point in how I think about dreams, money, and purpose.
I came back home more energised, inspired, and committed to turning every dream into a goal — and every goal into a plan.
Sometimes, the cost of pursuing your dream isn’t money — it’s courage, discipline, and preparation.
So, Do Your Dreams Scare You?
If they don’t, they’re not big enough.
If they do — then maybe, just maybe, you’re on the right track.
Take the risk. Build a financial cushion. Ask for the unpaid leave.
And when your moment comes, be ready to say yes — because the dream is always worth it.
Conclusion
At The TKO Network, we believe in building bridges between leadership, finance, and personal growth — helping African professionals take bold, intentional steps toward the life they imagine.
Whether you’re planning a sabbatical, launching a side hustle, or applying for a global fellowship — remember: financial readiness fuels freedom.
Until then, stay trailblazing
