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CELEBRATING WOMEN IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY – THIS WOMEN’S MONTH AND BEYOND
Women’s Month is the perfect time to recognise and celebrate the incredible contributions of women within our organisation and across the automotive industry.
For many years, the automotive sector was seen as a male-dominated space. Today, more women than ever are making their mark – whether in sales, customer service, finance, technical support, or executive leadership.
At NADA, we are proud to work alongside women whose professionalism, dedication, expertise, and passion not only strengthen our organisation but also help drive the industry toward greater inclusivity and innovation.
Their impact is visible at every level:
- Women leading dealerships with vision and integrity
- Women enhancing customer experiences with empathy and excellence
- Women technicians and specialists breaking new ground in aftersales and workshop environments
- Women serving on NADA committees, shaping policy, advocacy, and dealer support
These contributions reflect the deep knowledge, talent, resilience, and commitment women bring to the table every day.
We extend our gratitude to the dealerships that contributed to this edition, sharing inspiring stories of the remarkable women on their teams. Just as importantly, we honour the many women across our industry who may not be featured here but whose leadership, dedication, and passion continue to uplift and empower the entire dealer community.
At NADA, we believe diversity is more than just a value – it’s a catalyst for excellence. The creativity, leadership, and determination shown by women across our membership inspire the next generation to view the automotive industry as one where skill, dedication, and passion – not gender-define success.
This Women’s Month, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every woman who plays a role in strengthening NADA and the dealer community. Your presence, perseverance, and professionalism are shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for the industry.
We celebrate you. We honour your journey. And we commit to building an automotive world where everyone can thrive.
Bernita Azzie
Co-convenor of the NADA Legal and Compliance Forum
CELEBRATING MERRIAM PHALI – A TRUE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THE SCENES
This Women’s Month, Gindra Motors proudly celebrates Merriam Phali, whose inspiring journey from cleaner to Licensing Clerk, trusted company proxy, and reliable driver reflects her resilience and dedication. Merriam’s versatility and deep understanding of the motor industry shine through in every role she takes on.
Known for her honesty, warmth, and uplifting spirit, she’s a beloved colleague and a devoted single mother who balances work and family with grace. Merriam reminds us that every role can be a stepping stone, and every woman has the power to rise and inspire.
CELEBRATING SAMANTHA SKULLY: A WOMAN OF QUIET STRENGTH, UNMATCHED DEDICATION, AND GRACEFUL BALANCE
This Women’s Month, DFSK South Africa proudly celebrates Samantha, whose journey from data capturer to national dealer sales and logistics is a testament to her dedication and growth. Her quiet strength, attention to detail, and willingness to support others make her an invaluable part of the team.
Balancing her career with being a devoted single mother, Samantha embodies resilience, humility, and compassion. Her story inspires us all and reflects the unstoppable spirit of women in the motor industry.
CELEBRATING WOMEN IN THE MOTOR INDUSTRY
NMI Ford Pinetown celebrates Lomeshnee Naidoo, whose 15 years of dedicated service as an admin clerk have made her a cornerstone of the sales administration team.
Known for her gentle nature and strong work ethic, Lomeshnee continues to pursue her accounting studies, showing her commitment to growth and excellence.
Her journey is a powerful reminder of the impact of dedication and the vital role women play in driving the motor industry forward.
CELEBRATING THE WOMEN OF GARDEN CITY MOTORS BLOEMFONTEIN
At Garden City Motors Bloemfontein, 17 remarkable women are being honoured for their collective 207 years of service—averaging over 12 years each.
Their dedication, professionalism, and passion are celebrated as the driving force behind the company’s success. From experienced veterans to emerging leaders, these women embody resilience, innovation, and integrity, echoing the spirit of the 1956 Women’s March to the Union Buildings.
The management and executive teams express deep gratitude for their leadership, teamwork, and unwavering excellence.
CELEBRATING EXCEPTIONAL WOMEN IN HUMAN CAPITAL – MASANDE KOMDLEKA
For 13 years, Masande has brought resilience and adaptability to NMI, thriving in the ever-evolving motor industry. Her leadership in Human Capital goes beyond the expected – she’s a catalyst for transformation, navigating complex challenges with professionalism and purpose.
Through innovative recruitment and talent development strategies, Masande has strengthened employee engagement, retention, and performance. Her work exemplifies the power of human capital to build inclusive, high-performing teams.
CELEBRATING EXCEPTIONAL WOMEN IN HUMAN CAPITAL – LERATO NKALA
For 18 years, Lerato has been a champion of employee wellbeing at NMI. Her leadership in diversity, equity, and inclusion has helped create a workplace where every voice is valued. Through initiatives supporting mental health and continuous learning, she has fostered a culture of trust, collaboration, and growth.
Lerato’s impact reminds us that great HR leadership is about more than policies – it’s about empowering people and shaping the future of the organisation.
CELEBRATING EXCEPTIONAL WOMEN IN HUMAN CAPITAL – UJAALA DEONARAIN
This Women’s Month, NMI proudly celebrates Ujaala Deonarain for 26 years of outstanding leadership in the motor industry. As Human Capital Manager, she has been a driving force-shaping teams, guiding transformation, and setting high standards with professionalism and insight.
Her legacy is one of resilience, mentorship, and integrity in a demanding industry. Ujaala continues to inspire as a trailblazer and role model, redefining what leadership looks like.
MARKET PERSPECTIVES FROM PAUL MARSHALL, LIGHTSTONE AUTO MD
The auto market overall is in strong form, with June sales – according to Naamsa – nearly 20% up year-on-year and 2025 tracking towards 8% growth.
Lightstone’s data shows South African women are making stronger moves in the vehicle market now accounting for 39% of financed new car purchases, up from 32% a decade ago. Toyota remains their top brand, with SUVs the body shape of choice and linked interest rates the preferred finance option.
We’re also seeing a shift to longer-term finance contracts as buyers seek affordability despite extended repayment periods.
