An 18-year-old from Aberdare, Rhondda Cynon Taf, has turned a teenage hobby into a thriving business, earning over £35,000 by reselling vintage football shirts. Eleri Williams, who started during her GCSEs, now aims to graduate from Cardiff University debt-free thanks to the profits.
What began as a way to earn pocket money by selling a few of her father's old shirts quickly grew. By reinvesting her earnings, Eleri built a successful online resale business from her parents' spare room. Three years later, she has opened a physical shop, Ballers CP, in Cardiff's Royal Arcade.
"The intention was never to pay for university—it was for pocket money for typical teenage spending," Eleri said. "But it's completely overwhelming. I've met so many amazing fellow shirt sellers with fascinating stories."
With rising student debt concerns, side hustles have become a lifeline for many young people. Eleri hopes her business will allow her to leave university without debt while studying law. "I'm in a comfortable position financially; now it's up to me academically," she added.
Her parents help manage the shop when she has school or exams, and she plans to adapt opening hours around her university schedule. Among her prized finds is the legendary Super Furry Animals-sponsored Cardiff City shirt, which she refuses to sell due to its rarity. Her personal favorite is the 2002-03 Manchester United third kit.
Eleri's story highlights how a simple side hustle can evolve into a sustainable business, offering a path through higher education without the burden of loans.