MISA empowers learners to make decisions through job shadowing

23 August 2023

After hosting the Career Expo’s at schools for Grade 11 learners, #MISA empowers them by arranging job-shadowing opportunities in their field of interest in becoming part of the retail motor industry.

Martlé Keyter, #MISA’s Chief Executive Officer: Operations, says the Union is aware of the fact that thousands of learners do not enjoy University exemption or do not want to study at a University.

“The retail motor industry employs more than 300 000 employees and provides as vast variety of career opportunities. #MISA believes in consistently growing and enhancing our industry, making a positive contribution to youth unemployment in South Africa.”

Covid-19 derailed #MISA’s efforts for the past two years as it was difficult for the Union’s Workers Forums to host Career Expo’s at schools.

Keyter says after the Career Expo’s, #MISA assists leaners who want to gain more experience in a specific field through physical job shadowing opportunities.

Job shadowing is great way to learn what to expect on a typical day in your chosen profession. You can also determine whether the employer is the right fit for your personality, work style and beliefs and what is the practical elements are that is associated with the job.

This opportunity was given to Gloria Gqomo and Michaela Ruiters, learners from the Otto Du Plessis High School in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. They were assisted by Michelle Marx, #MISA Women’s Forum Representative for the Eastern Cape.

“Michelle Douglas, who works as a technician/warranty clerk at the Nissan Eastern Cape dealership, took the two learners under her wing. They were taught how to change tyres and loved it. They had the opportunity to see how a workshop works. They did not want to go home.

“The Group HR Manager for the Eastern Cape Motor Group, Hayden Jonker, also had a session with them on other related matters and how to compile a CV,” says Marx.

If you want to arrange job shadowing for your child in the retail motor industry, please phone Karen Gouws on 041 364 0102.

Here are some of the reasons why job shadowing should be considered:

• The option to test career possibilities;
• Learning about an organisation’s culture;
• Share worker experiences;
• Build professional connections;
• Learn practical skills;
• Get a glimpse into job’s perks and challenges;
• Gain work experience and build your CV;
• Access to a safe place for questions;
• Discover areas you can improve in;
• Explore other career interests.

#MISACARES #MISAONTHEMOVE

Issued on behalf of #MISA by Sonja Carstens, Media, Communication and Liaison Specialist.