Youth unemployment remains one of South Africa’s most pressing challenges, and the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) is tackling it head-on with the launch of Motoring Mavericks.
This initiative highlights the diverse career paths available within modern car dealerships—far beyond the traditional roles of sales or mechanics.
Today’s dealerships are dynamic business hubs powered by technology, data and customer service. They require digitally skilled marketers, finance experts, HR professionals, business managers and technicians to keep operations thriving.
“As South Africa continues to battle high youth unemployment, we want to open young people’s eyes to the real career opportunities inside the automotive retail space,” says NADA Director Ashley Samuel. “Dealerships are fast-paced, technology-driven environments where ambitious young professionals can grow quickly, develop valuable skills and build strong earning potential.”
The campaign showcases real-life stories of young professionals who have advanced in roles such as Finance & Insurance Specialists, Dealer Principals, Sales Executives, Marketing Professionals and Service Technicians. Through interviews and short videos, they share how they entered the industry and built rewarding careers.
With dealerships facilitating the majority of the 596 818 new vehicles sold in South Africa in 2025, their role in the automotive sector is pivotal. As new brands enter the market and technology reshapes the industry, opportunities for motivated young professionals are expanding rapidly.
Motoring Mavericks will be shared across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn, giving young South Africans direct access to career advice, industry insights and inspiring success stories.
Staff Writer
Reporting from the front lines of the automotive industry, delivering expert analysis and the technical updates that drive the South African motor sector forward.