The side hustle Economy: How Belizeans are turning weekends into extra income

By Zoila Palma:  In Belize, having one job is increasingly no longer the only way people are making ends meet.

Across the country, workers are turning to side hustles to supplement their regular incomes, using evenings, weekends and even holidays to sell food, clothing, household items and other products.

From weekend chicken dip and ceviche to online orders from Shein and Temu, these small ventures have become a familiar part of everyday economic life.

For some Belizeans, the side hustle is something they operate only on weekends, while others have transformed their extra-income activities into small businesses.

Office workers may spend their Saturdays preparing wings or burgers for sale, couples may operate small drink bars or food stands, and others set up booths at night markets to sell everything from snacks and desserts to clothing and imported goods. These ventures allow people to earn additional income while keeping their regular employment.

Night markets have become one avenue where these small entrepreneurs can test their ideas and reach customers.

At a recent night market at Falcon Field, BBN’s Zoila Palma encountered a businessman who already owns an ice cream shop in Orange Walk but had also started a wing business as a side venture. His experience reflects a growing trend among Belizeans who are not necessarily starting a business because they have left their jobs, but because they want another stream of income alongside their main source of earnings.

The reasons behind the side-hustle culture are varied, but for many families, the additional income can help cover groceries, bills, school expenses and other rising costs.

Some entrepreneurs may eventually turn their weekend operations into full-time businesses, while others are simply looking for a way to earn extra money without giving up the security of their primary employment.

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