Hyundai Automotive South Africa has launched Drive Your Dreams, a mentorship programme designed to give learners real exposure to the world of work and create clear pathways into employment. The initiative, which guarantees career opportunities after school or tertiary studies, is being piloted with 30 Grade 11 learners from Oosrand Commerce and Entrepreneurship School of Specialisation in Boksburg.
One of the highlights of the launch was the mentorship of 16-year-old top learner, Zaakiyah Human, who was paired with Hyundai Automotive South Africa CEO, Stanley Anderson. He emphasised the importance of creating opportunities for women in a male-dominated sector, noting that women currently account for less than 20% of South Africa’s automotive workforce and less than 10% of leadership positions globally.
The need for mentorship is underscored by a survey of 336 Grade 11 learners at Oosrand, which revealed that two-thirds had never met a CEO or business leader, and half had no mentor or career guide. The survey also found that half would be the first in their families to attend university or pursue a professional qualification.
“As a company that promotes inclusivity and forward-thinking, we believe mobility is about more than moving people from point A to point B. It is about moving lives forward,” Anderson explained.
Oosrand was selected for the pilot because of its track record of excellence among schools that have benefitted from Hyundai’s investment in 22 school libraries. According to General Manager for Training, Tamika Mercedes, these resources have transformed learning outcomes and encouraged schools to participate in annual academic competitions. “Drive Your Dreams is the next gear. It is about turning access into opportunity. We want young South Africans to see what’s possible beyond the classroom and to know that their dreams are valid and achievable,” she said.
The 30 learners will spend two days a month at Hyundai’s Training Academy in Bedfordview, where they will gain insights into the automotive industry, workplace culture, communication, time management, and teamwork. Each participant will be paired with an executive or senior manager to provide hands-on mentorship.
On completion of matric in 2026, the top-performing learner will be awarded a bursary for a three-year university degree in an automotive-related field, with guaranteed employment upon graduation. The remaining participants will be eligible for Hyundai’s apprenticeship, sales cadet, and learnership programmes.
Hyundai Automotive South Africa’s goal is to ultimately employ all 30 learners, ensuring that the mentorship becomes a launchpad for long-term careers. “All the activities during the mentorship are geared towards these young people becoming part of our Hyundai family,” Anderson said.
