A dented bonnet, a scratched door or a faded coat of paint may look like the end of a car's story. For Nobuhle Ndandani, it is where the transformation begins.

With a spray gun in hand and an eye for detail, Ndandani has turned her love for cars and passion for working with her hands into a career in automotive spray painting. Her journey from a TVET college classroom to a traditionally male-dominated industry is a story of determination, skill and refusing to let other people’s doubts define what she can achieve.

Nobuhle Ndandani has managed to combine her passion and studies into a career.

A qualified automotive spray painter who studied at False Bay TVET College, Ndandani is proof that practical education can open doors to careers that combine creativity, technical skill and craftsmanship.

Her training at False Bay TVET College gave her a strong practical foundation, with about 70% of her studies focused on hands-on learning. She gained experience in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), tools and equipment, as well as the techniques required in the automotive industry.

Her lecturers also instilled lessons that extend beyond the workshop, including the importance of safety, preparation, quality and attention to detail.

For Ndandani, these lessons gave her more than technical knowledge. They gave her the confidence and practical skills to enter the workplace and begin building a career as an artisan.

Her TVET qualification opened the door to an industry traditionally dominated by men.

Through a learnership, Ndandani gained experience at several panel-beating companies, spending six months at each workplace. The placements exposed her to different working environments, teams and approaches to the trade.

Starting her career as a paint preparer also taught her an important lesson: every role matters.

The experience showed her that career development takes patience, consistency and a willingness to learn. It also taught her how to adapt to different workplaces and make the most of every opportunity to develop her skills.

But her journey was not without challenges.

As a young woman entering a traditionally male-dominated industry, Ndandani encountered people who doubted whether she could succeed in automotive spray painting. At times, some were also reluctant to share their knowledge with her.

Instead of allowing these experiences to discourage her, she continued to learn and improve.

"It was difficult, but I did not give up. I kept practising, asking questions and learning wherever I could. This taught me to believe in myself and keep going, even when others doubted me."

The challenges strengthened her confidence and reinforced the importance of perseverance.

Today, Ndandani takes pride in her place in the automotive industry and hopes her experience will encourage more women to consider careers in the trades.

Nobuhle Ndandani is carving a niche for herself in a predominantly male dominated industry.

Ndandani's journey has also shaped her desire to help young people discover the opportunities offered by TVET colleges.

She believes many young people still do not know about the range of careers that can be pursued through vocational education and often see university as the only route to success.

"It is important to me because I know what TVET education has done for my life."

She adds:

"Many young people do not know about the opportunities available at TVET colleges. I want them to understand that university is not the only path to success."

For Ndandani, TVET education can equip young people with practical skills that can lead to employment, further study or entrepreneurship.

She is particularly passionate about changing perceptions of artisan careers and encouraging young people to take pride in practical skills.

"I want young people to know that being an artisan is something to be proud of."

Looking ahead, Ndandani hopes to open her own spray-painting workshop and create opportunities for others entering the industry.

She also wants to work with schools and speak to learners, teachers and parents about trades, TVET colleges and practical career opportunities.

Her message is particularly relevant to young people who may struggle in traditional academic environments. She believes academic performance should not determine whether a young person sees a future for themselves.

"Not every child is good at books, but some are talented with their hands and learn better through practical work."

Ndandani is equally determined to encourage more young women to enter industries traditionally dominated by men.

"If you enjoy working with your hands, creating things or solving problems, consider a TVET college and explore the trades. To young women, I say do not believe that trades are only for men. I am proof that women can succeed in the automotive industry."

Her story reflects the 2026 TVET Month theme, "TVET: The inclusive home of occupational excellence – Driving the skills revolution."

From developing practical skills at False Bay TVET College to becoming a qualified automotive spray painter, Ndandani's journey shows how vocational education can provide young people with the skills, confidence and opportunities to build sustainable careers.

"I am proud of my TVET journey, and I hope my story encourages other young people, especially young women, to believe in themselves."

* Compiled by Mamonare Mahlo, Communication and Online Officer: UNEVOC Centre at Unisa