For most parents, watching their children pursue education and careers is a source of great pride.
For Zimkhita Dlakiya of East London, that feeling comes with a unique twist. She is not only witnessing her son begin his own journey in the automotive sector, she is building her own path in the same industry at the same time.
Their story drew attention at the recent Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) SpannerTorque Festival, where the mother and son became an inspiring example of how opportunity, determination and family support help shape skilled professionals.
Zimkhita, a mother of two, began her career in 2015 and has progressed through consistent learning and practical experience. She is currently studying for a BTech in Mechanical Engineering through Walter Sisulu University while completing her trade at the Mercedes Benz Learning Academy. Her interest in innovation developed while rotating through various departments and discovering a passion for technology and problem solving within Quality.
She explains that this exposure changed her perspective on the industry. The hands-on work and technical challenges helped her appreciate how dynamic the automotive field can be. However, she did not expect to embark on this journey alongside her son. She had always imagined him going straight to university, yet working and studying together has created a rewarding bond.
Her own academic and practical path has shown her the value of real-world learning. The voluntary training she undertook during her diploma provided crucial insight and demonstrated that there is more than one route to success.
For Alulutho, the interest began during his time at Port Rex Technical High School. He admits that theory did not come as naturally to him as practical work, but his enthusiasm for hands-on tasks motivated him to improve. He is now enrolled in the Retail Motor Industry Organisation’s Project Dineo programme, which supports young people entering the trade. He credits the programme with providing mentorship and new opportunities.
Studying in the same field as his mother has added meaning to his journey. She had always encouraged him to explore technical subjects, but he did not initially realise that she was developing her own career in the same direction. Now that they are completing the same trade, he believes she feels proud, even if she does not always say it.
Their shared path has produced humorous moments too, such as when she finds herself buying lunch for him and his colleagues. Yet Zimkhita is conscious of her professional role and the example she sets, knowing her son looks up to her. Their experience has strengthened their mutual respect. She acknowledges that she often learns from him as well, particularly when his strong technical background helps him grasp certain concepts quickly.
Both have clear plans for the future. Alulutho hopes to expand his skills by studying auto electrical systems and gaining experience in different environments, with ambitions of working overseas one day. Zimkhita dreams of eventually running a workshop with him, combining their qualifications and experience into a family business.
Their story showcases the impact of programmes that support both young people and adults in developing technical skills. For organisations like MIWA and the RMI, the Dlakiya family highlights the potential that emerges when individuals are given chances to learn and grow. Their message to other families is clear. Support young people as they explore technical fields, because opportunities within the automotive industry can lead to unexpected and rewarding careers.
