March 8 was International Women’s Day. With a focus on untraditional career choices the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), introduces us to three dynamic women on the brink of completing their Motor Mechanic Apprenticeships at the College of Cape Town.
Zetu Mase, Nasiefah Corker and Nokanyo Xobololo were among a cohort of 32 apprentices who, in March 2022, embarked on their journey at this Centre of Specialisation, which offers the unique Automotive Motor Mechanic Occupational Certificate.
They’re hungry for success, having been through many hoops and juggled many balls over the past three years. What they also hope is that their success stories will be noticed by other women as an inspiration to go for it and explore the automotive sector.
Zetu has seen first-hand the qualities women bring to a workshop environment and says the sector has to move beyond stereotypes.
“When women enter this industry and are passionate about their work, they bring dedication, attention to detail and strong planning skills. I’ve seen it.
“It’s not about whether you’re male or female; it’s about your skills, knowledge and mindset. Women have plenty to offer and we should be given the right guidance and opportunities, rather than being discouraged from pursuing this career.”
Now that they’ve almost qualified, it’s a bold step into the unknown but one all of them are excited to take. Zetu and Naseifah grew up with engine oil in their blood and a passion for what lies beneath the veneer of enviable car brands.
“From a young age I’d take note of different models and brands, recognising similarities in designs and identifying those I liked. Over time that interest grew into a passion and after high school I decided I wanted to learn more – not just about cars but how to fix them,” Zetu says.
Naseifah savours the memory of holding the torch for her dad as he worked on his and friends’ cars. “All I did was watch but I found it fascinating. When the chance arose to be an apprentice, I grabbed it with both hands.”
She wasn’t always physically as tough as you need to be for certain tasks, but Neseifah learned to be kinder to herself. “It made me feel weak to have to be helped in certain tasks but I had to remind myself that I’m still building my strength and it’s natural for males to be physically stronger.
“Sometimes, female apprentices are side-lined or given easier tasks because they are perceived as weak or fragile. But if you work hard and prove yourself, you’ll gain trust and respect in the workshop.
“Women shouldn’t be put off by thinking the automotive sector is a man’s world. It’s tough, yes, but you can succeed. If you’re passionate it gets easier over time.”
Nokanyo didn’t have the foggiest idea about cars, engines or tools when she decided to enrol for a college course. “A lecturer advised me to consider Motor Engineering. He said it’s easier to find a job in this field and because there are so few women in the industry, companies value having a female mechanic.
“He also said if I didn’t get a formal job, I would still have the skills to earn money by working from home. That convinced me to give it a try.”
She hasn’t looked back.
“Women are just as capable as men. We’re strong, hardworking and determined and can do anything we set our minds to. I encourage young women to consider this field because there are so many opportunities beyond just being a mechanic. They can become service advisors, lecturers or even managers. “There’s nothing men can do that we can’t. In fact, we can often do it better!”
The three apprentices and their peers on the college course (27 males and five females in total), gained hands-on experience at prestigious new-vehicle dealerships, such as BMW, Toyota and Land Rover, as well as at reputable independent repair workshops, all of which are accredited RMI members.
Louis van Huyssteen, National Director Training for the RMI, emphasises the importance of these strong employer ties, saying, “The genuine commitment of our employer members and the nurturing environment at the Athlone campus ensure that our apprentices not only develop technical expertise but also gain the respect of their peers and communities.
“When employers treat every team member consistently, it creates a culture where every apprentice feels engaged and valued.”
Rasheed Adhikari, facilitator at the college, says that more than 90% of apprentices secure permanent positions as technicians at vehicle dealerships or as qualified motor mechanics in independent MIWA-accredited workshops.
“Practical training alongside experienced motor mechanics and dedicated mentors definitely enriches the learning experience and builds the bridge between industry and academia. It also secures employment so by the time the apprentices have written their test they already have job security.
“This is so important when you consider how many graduates struggle to find work after they qualify. The close relationships we have fostered with industry allow us to move apprentices around and manage the employment pool so everyone is finally placed. It is a win-win for both the college and the apprentices.”
Van Huyssteen adds that RMI is exceptionally proud to see some young people from the programme even start their own workshops.
“RMI plays a crucial support role in guiding start-ups to meet the required criteria and start contributing positively to the economy.
“We have no doubt Zetu, Nasiefah and Nokanyo will be an inspiration to thousands of women in their careers, turning the screws on outdated perceptions that the automotive sector isn’t a place where women will find success.”
