Is gig work freedom—or exploitation with a sleek interface?

South Africa is moving to overhaul its labour laws, potentially extending basic protections like minimum wage, leave, and safety standards to app-based workers. For thousands of young people earning through ride-hailing, delivery, and online platforms, this could redefine what it means to hustle in the digital age.

But with greater rights could come trade-offs—reduced flexibility, higher costs, and pushback from tech companies. So where should the line be drawn between independence and protection? The Big Chief explores this.