Who is the CEO of Takealot?

Takealot founder and CEO Kim Reid has transitioned to the new role of Group CEO, Takealot Group and will become chairman of the group during the course of 2027.

The search for a new Group CEO is underway and when the right person is found to succeed Kim, this will be announced.  The appointment of the new Group CEO will reflect the company’s commitment to transformation.

Once chairman, Kim will work closely with the Group CEO and Naspers on the group’s next phase, stepping back from day-to-day operations to focus on initiatives that will deliver future value for the group.

“Reflecting on the last 10 years, we are at a unique point in our history where I am able to set the wheels in motion to pass operational responsibility to a Group CEO, and at the same time drive our commitment to transformation right from the top. The business has never been in a better position, poised for the potential growth in ecommerce in South Africa. We have strong management and committed employees who have contributed, and will continue to contribute, to a wonderful, unique, South African story,” said Kim.

In addition to creating a new Group CEO position, and to support the transition, the company is further bolstering leadership with the creation of a new CEO position to lead the Takealot.com business. Frederik Zietsman, who currently heads up the Retail and Marketplace portfolio in Takealot.com, will be appointed to this role, reporting directly to the Group CEO who will work with the leaders of Takealot.com, Superbalist.com, and Mr D Food to build on these well-established platforms.

Kim has always placed people at the centre of the business. “Without our people we would not be where we are today. We have created opportunities for a remarkable group of talented individuals, who will continue to drive the business forward with passion. The people with the best people win,” he said.

The story of the Takealot Group is one of a successful start-up that grew to become the champion of ecommerce in South Africa, developing three strong verticals in Takealot.com, Superbalist.com, and Mr D Food. It evolved from humble beginnings in a warehouse in Montague Gardens, Cape Town, to a continually expanding organisation that now employs over 2500 people and has driven the evolution of ecommerce in South Africa.

“The market potential in South Africa still presents tremendous opportunity. While the current pandemic has accelerated consumer adoption of ecommerce by around two to three years, ecommerce still represents less than 3% of total retail in South Africa. This illustrates the scope, opportunity and work that still needs to be done. Although we realise we are never perfect, that does not stop us from striving for perfection while always placing customers, sellers and the people that work at the Group at the centre of our universe,” said Kim.

“Kim and his team have built an incredible business over many years, starting as many ecommerce businesses do, in a room in a warehouse. With their innovation and hard work they have built a world-class ecommerce business that South Africa can be proud of. Much of that is down to Kim who has been a tireless force at the centre of the business. He will hand over a business in great shape for the next chapter and remain well-connected to the group as chairman to help guide this next phase,” said Bob van Dijk, Group CEO, Prosus and Naspers.

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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
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  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.

  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.

  5. Upload Required Documents

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  6. Submit Your Application

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  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
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🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

 

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