Tanita Francis
Nominee's Province:
Kwazulu-natal
Project Name/Description:
Auto Assist Panel and Paint, Owner
Tanita Francis, the owner of Auto Assist Panel and Paint in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, is breaking barriers in the male-dominated motor industry. She owns one of the most successful panel shops in the city, establishing herself as a trailblazer for women in the field. Francis is a beacon of hope, continuously empowering women, particularly within the motor industry. Her motivation to enter the industry arose from her awareness of how women motorists were often exploited.
Before starting her panel beaters business, Francis was deeply involved in her father’s panel beaters shop, which unfortunately closed a few years ago. In addition to her commitment to women’s empowerment, she actively supports youth in various Durban communities, sponsoring complete car resprays and backing youth events and businesses.
“Our primary goal is to keep the passion for cars alive, helping women who share this passion to embrace it, and enabling the youth to advance their enthusiasm for it as well,” Francis stated.
In 2023, her shop was recognised as the best in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, and she is currently nominated for another prestigious award as the Female Entrepreneur of 2024.
