Restoring veteran cars a skill in the making
Centre for Transformation Development launches incentive to curb youth unemployment.

Founder of the Centre for Transformation Development Dr Aleit Pretorius teamed up with his two mechanics Sam Umathuzimgonoe and Felix Ndlovu in a effort to involve youth around Johannesburg in the restoration of veteran cars.
The main focus of the centre is to allow youth to learn new skills which they can use to earn a sustainable income.
“Skills are the one thing that the youth of today need to survive and earn a living. We have decided to start a programme for young mechanics who want to learn about the art of restoring a classic,” Pretorius said. He explained that he currently has 50 vehicles that are waiting to be restored at a premises in Aldarapark. “Space is extremely tight so we are looking for a larger premises in and around Randburg. If anybody has space available they can feel free to contact us.”
Head mechanic Felix Ndlovu will be on hand during the training to guide students. “We have a variety of vehicles that the students can work on from a very scarce Rolls Royce Silver Shadow to Triumphs, Jaguars, and a very interesting Citroen DS. The DS was one of the few cars that could drive on three wheels, it had a hydropneumatic suspension that lifted the car off the ground so you did not even require a jack to lift the car when you had a flat.”
Ndlovu added, “Our main purpose is to restore these vehicles and use them in functions and weddings.” The programme will be in full swing by next year. “It’s not a programme in the sense of the word because we want young people to come and join us over weekends and during the week to work on the vehicles with our mechanics to acquire the skills needed to restore a classic. They can feel free to contact me to inquire about date and time when they can join us. It’s about bringing back memories of an era gone by,” concluded Pretorius.
Details: Dr Aleit Pretorius 082-707-3529.