Five women in the automotive industry, all accredited members of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud Association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), talk to us about what they love and don’t love about the industry, and how they see the industry evolving.
– ARTICLE COURTESY OF RETAIL MOTORING INDUSTRY ORGANIZATION (RMI)
SEBOLA MAHURA, who works in admin and marketing at KGK Motors, says it was a dream to join the automotive sector. Her job keeps her on her toes and she loves this, along with interacting with clients and learning something new every day.
“It inspires me to want to learn and achieve more and grab every opportunity,” she says.
…all you need is to find where your passion and skills lie and go for it without looking back
Sebola Mahura, Admin and Marketing – KGK Motors
Her excitement wanes though when asked about people’s reactions to her job. “They don’t believe a woman can know anything about cars. At work, my advice or opinion is often not trusted by a client because I’m female, so I always make a point of demonstrating whatever it is to them, to show I’m capable.”
Strong, fearless women is what the sector needs, says Sebola. “Women must leave the perception of it being male-dominated behind and get involved – there are lots of opportunities, from sales and admin to technician or panelbeater.”
Her plans ahead include expanding branches nationwide and hosting workshops to educate clients about their vehicles.
“My advice to women wanting to break into the automotive sector – all you need is to find where your passion and skills lie and go for it without looking back. There are no limitations except those you impose on yourself.”
