Mailula claimed her first major 10km win on Heritage Day at the Absa Run Your City race in 33:44 and followed it up with a strong fourth-place finish at the Spar Women’s 10km in Gqeberha in 32:43 on Saturday.

The 23-year-old, who represents the University of Pretoria in her final year of teaching studies, revealed that she does not receive a monthly stipend and is eager to join a club that can support her financially as she graduates next year. 

"I am marketing myself now since I'm finishing my degree very soon. The goal is to get a sponsor, and then find a club where I can run well for good pay."

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The University Sport South Africa 10 000m champion said it was by chance that she met her role model and current coach, Caster Semenya, along with Violet, who now guides her at the University of Pretoria.

Mailula expressed hope that sponsors and managers are taking note of her talent and drive.

Training alongside South African star Glenrose Xaba in Tshwane, Mailula shared why she believes potential sponsors should back her.

She insisted she is ready to represent a club with pride and professionalism.

Despite her success on the road, Mailula stressed the importance of her teaching studies, funded by a NSFAS bursary.

She admitted running was never her original plan, but now it has opened new doors. Still, she cautioned that athletics is a short-term career that comes with risks like injuries, making education vital for her future.

The soft-spoken runner told SABC Sport earlier this week that she took a big risk by competing in two high-profile 10km races in Johannesburg and Gqeberha.

She believes the gamble paid off in Gqeberha, where she clocked a personal best of 32:43, and is now setting her sights on another top-10 finish at the Spar Joburg 10km on 5 October.