Sep 29, 2025 Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), Louis van Huyssteen, otheo TVET College, South African Deaf Youth Development Organisation (SADYDO), Cliford Machete
Driving inclusion and opportunity in the automotive sector
September marks Deaf Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the importance of inclusivity, equal opportunity, and breaking down barriers faced by the Deaf community. With South African Sign Language (SASL) recently recognised as the country’s 12th official language, there is fresh momentum to ensure Deaf South Africans are not left behind in education, employment, and industry participation.
The Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), with its network of more than 23,000 employers and 300,000 employees in the retail automotive aftermarket, offers fertile ground for these opportunities. From technical roles in repair, diagnostics, spray painting, panel beating and innovation to customer-facing positions and entrepreneurship, Deaf graduates can bring unique strengths and perspectives to the workplace. Louis van Huyssteen, National Training Director at the RMI, commends Motheo TVET College on its progress in delivering occupational qualifications in Motor Mechanics, Panel Beating, and Spray Painting, noting that the College is one of the few to empower Deaf graduates.
Against this backdrop, the story of Cliford Machete – a proud Motheo TVET College alumnus, Deaf educator, and National Spokesperson for the South African Deaf Youth Development Organisation (SADYDO) – is both timely and inspirational. His journey of resilience and determination, which he shared at Motheo’s milestone graduation ceremony this month resonates not only with graduates but also with industry, calling on employers to open their doors to diverse talent and actively build inclusive workplaces.
As the first Deaf person to serve as Disability Officer on the SRC at Motheo, Cliford has become a strong advocate for change. He has worked closely with the College Principal, Prof Dipiloane Phutsisi, on practical initiatives such as the introduction of more sign language interpreters, the establishment of an annual Disability Conference, and rolling out basic sign language training across all campuses during Deaf Awareness Month in 2014. “That experience taught me how to build consensus and get things done,” he explains. “It also ignited my passion for empowerment and social justice.” That passion later propelled him into national leadership, first as Vice President, then President, and now National Spokesperson of SADYDO.
Cliford strongly believes the official recognition of SASL opens new doors. “It will improve education outcomes through increased access to interpreters, expand job opportunities, and foster a more inclusive workplace culture where Deaf individuals can thrive.” He challenges misconceptions that still exist among employers: “Too often, Deaf employees are wrongly seen as less productive or harder to accommodate. In reality, simple steps like providing interpreters, offering basic sign language training to staff, or using accessible technology can unlock the potential of Deaf employees – who bring unique perspectives, strong attention to detail, and the ability to connect with Deaf and hard-of-hearing customers.”
Frik Botha, Director at ITC, a private training provider that has since 2016 trained more than 60 learners – including Deaf and LSEN (Learners with Special Educational Needs) – in panel beating and spray painting, agrees. “By adapting training methods to be less theory-heavy, more practical, and supported in sign language, learners have been able to overcome barriers and succeed,” he says. “We’ve seen first-hand that with the right approach, disability is not a barrier. Our learners work step by step with facilitators, building confidence and mastering skills. Some are already on their way to full qualifications, proving the industry can be accessible and inclusive.”
Cliford’s advice to Deaf youth entering the job market is simple but powerful, “Believe in yourself and don’t let others define your potential. Develop your skills, seek support, and pursue your passion. Resilience, combined with the right opportunities, can open doors to meaningful careers – including in technical industries like automotive repair and diagnostics. Partnerships between industry bodies like the RMI, training institutions, and organisations such as SADYDO are key.” By promoting inclusive practices, offering resources like interpreters and mentorship, and developing tailored vocational programmes like both Frik and Cliford advocate, we can drive real and lasting change.
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