By Khulekani Dumisa

Isuzu Motors South Africa has maintained an automotive industry leading level one in their Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) audit for a second consecutive year.

Billy Tom, President and Chief Executive Officer of the company says “With Isuzu Motors South Africa being just three years old we are extremely proud of this achievement. The past year has been a tough one for everyone, however as a business we continued to forge forward with good business practices which we have implemented as part of our commitment to transformation.”

Tom said South Africa should actively support businesses who are enthusiastically contributing towards transformation and the growth of our economy. “Creating opportunities and an inclusive economy will help with transforming South Africa.”

Tom emphasised that the company’s transformation journey was only just starting. “Isuzu remains committed to the social and economic growth and development of South Africa; our strategic plans continue with a focus of implementing initiatives which will further transform our business and that of our entire value chain.”

Youth Empowerment

With South Africa’s unemployment rate being high, especially amongst the youth, Isuzu is committed to supporting the President’s drive to create employment for youth.

“We partnered with Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator and Engeli in 2020 and this ensured that we receive high quality, job-ready candidates. Thus far, we have taken on 114 YES trainees and they have performed well beyond our expectations.” – said Mongezi Hermans, Senior Vice President Human Capital and Corporate Affairs.

Hermans continues: “Amongst the 114 candidates, we have secured permanent employment for over 20 youth within Isuzu. We will continue to support the programme as it talks to our talent acquisition strategy for the future generation of Isuzu workers.”

Furthermore, Isuzu is committed to fulfilling its citizenship obligations through its corporate social responsibility programme which seeks to provide sustainable solutions in the communities by investing in skills development and education.

Isuzu also takes a keen interest in initiatives aimed at the development of young South Africans, especially in the field of Mathematics, Science and Engineering.

Tom added that given the changes COVID-19 has brought upon business, having a flexible approach is important. “We have had to rethink and reshape how we do business, taking into consideration our business goals and understanding our customers’ needs while we adapt to the new normal.”

Source: www.isuzu.co.za