TEPA and Kids Haven Join Hands to Open Doors for SA’s Youth
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In the spirit of Mandela Month, the Tyre, Equipment, Parts Association (TEPA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), has announced a powerful new partnership with Kids Haven to help bridge the gap between vulnerable youth and real-world employment opportunities in the automotive sector. The theme for Mandela Day this year is “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity.
“Youth unemployment is one of South Africa’s most pressing challenges,” says Dylan Petzer, National Vice Chairman of the Tyre, Equipment and Parts Association (TEPA). “As an industry, we have a responsibility and a real opportunity to be part of the solution. Through this partnership with Kids Haven, we’re creating meaningful pathways into work for young people who have so much to offer but often lack the access and support needed to take their first steps.”
Kids Haven runs a holistic Pathway Programme supporting youth as they transition out of shelter care and into employment, education, or training. The organisation tackles barriers such as transport, childcare, confidence, and access to information, ensuring young people are not only work-ready but supported throughout the process.
“Youth unemployment is a national crisis. Corporates have the power to shift outcomes through inclusive skilling and placement partnerships,” says Ilka Stein, Manager: Youth & Skills Development at Kids Haven. “Our model is flexible and individualised, and we already have success stories showing the power of exposure, connection, and support. The current partnership with TEPA is one such success story.”
The partnership will see TEPA members offering facility visits, mentorship, short-term internships training, and potential employment placements for youth aligned with automotive sector needs. “TEPA’s broad industry network and focus on skills development make it a natural fit for this impactful collaboration,” says Petzer.
“Some of the most rewarding roles in our sector don’t require a matric certificate – what they do require is passion, a willingness to learn, and a foot in the door. That’s exactly what this partnership offers,” he says.
For the first one to three months, Kids Haven covers stipends and transport, reducing the financial burden on businesses while ensuring a strong support structure remains in place. “We’re not just connecting youth to jobs; we’re working together to build futures,” adds Stein.
Stein extends her heartfelt thanks to TEPA for joining hands with Kids Haven and taking a meaningful step toward inclusive youth development. “We are deeply grateful for TEPA’s commitment and look forward to growing this partnership in the months ahead – reaching even more young people with hope, opportunities, and real pathways to employment.”
As South Africa marks Mandela Month and reflects on the values of service, dignity, and community upliftment, TEPA and Kids Haven’s joint initiative is a timely reminder that real change begins with shared action and a belief in what’s possible.
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