Spanners, Not Speeches: Hyundai's Hands-On Lesson for the Next Generation

A group of Grade 12 girls at a Durban school recently swapped their pens for spanners — and came away with skills that could last a lifetime.

Hyundai Automotive South Africa took its commitment to youth empowerment beyond the boardroom by hosting a Young Girls Automotive Skills Workshop at Kloof High School in KwaZulu-Natal. The session was led by the company's experienced, qualified mechanics, who guided learners through tyre changes, vehicle diagnostics and the fundamentals of modern car electronics.

Mark Torrance, Regional General Manager: KwaZulu-Natal at Hyundai Automotive South Africa, framed the initiative as one built on practical confidence. "By sharing practical automotive knowledge and basic vehicle skills with young learners early on, we are helping them build confidence and understanding. When they become active mobility consumers one day, they will be better equipped to understand their vehicles, make informed decisions and prioritise their safety on the road."

Suzanne van Der Merwe, Regional Fleet Manager: KwaZulu-Natal, stressed the long-term value of early exposure. "Equipping young girls with essential vehicle knowledge at school level lays a strong foundation for the future. This knowledge contributes to ensuring they are more informed and safe future drivers."

Principal Rob Holding described the day's impact in no uncertain terms. "Our girls learnt about tyre changing, oil and water checking, how to interpret warning lights and technological functions. This was a hugely successful, invaluable exercise and we express our deep appreciation to Hyundai for such a program."

Hyundai has confirmed the Kloof High event is the first in a series, with future workshops planned for rural communities as part of its broader youth skills development agenda.