Saara Mowlana (26)

is a content producer who earns an entry-level salary. She lives at home with her parents, her grandmother and two siblings.

‘Ideally I would love to move to the CBD, which is closer to work, but property in the CBD is overpriced,’ says Saara. A tiny bachelor apartment in the middle of Cape Town costs about R12 000 a month, she says. ‘And that’s just one little room – it’s ridiculous. For now, it’s just cheaper to stay at home.’

Most of her peers are in the same boat. ‘A lot of people who are studying – and some I studied with – still live at home because they literally can’t afford to move out.’

Her faith is another reason Saara still lives at home. While her parents aren’t too strict about it, the Muslim community generally expects women to marry before moving out of their family home. ‘I think a lot of parents worry more about what the aunties or uncles are going to say; but I know who

I am and I know the personal boundaries I set for myself – and I know I wouldn’t do anything that’s beyond what I value and hold dear,’ Saara says.

‘My plan is to find my own space and move out as soon as

I’m able to sustain myself. I don’t think getting married is on the cards for me right now because it’s a bit rough with the current economy of men,’ she says with a laugh.

Her parents aren’t too keen on the idea of her flying the coop, says Saara. ‘My dad isn’t necessarily opposed; he’s more of the opinion that we need to stay with them until we’re able to [move]. But every time I joke that I’m going to move out, my mother says, “No! Don’t leave me.” I think she enjoys having my sister and me in her space.’

Saara is able to save on more than just rent, and plans to spend some of her savings on travel. ‘I don’t have to worry about electricity and water. I also know that someone’s always getting groceries and there will always be a home-cooked meal.’

Living on the same property with six other people isn’t always easy though, Saara admits. ‘Space can sometimes be an issue. I’m an introvert and I like my space. Sometimes you just need a break from your family. So I’d like to have my own sanctuary, to come home and enjoy some quiet time.’

‘My plan is to find my own space and move out as soon as I’m able to sustain myself. I don’t think getting married is on the cards for me right now because it’sabit rough with the current economy of men.’