From security guard to dealer principal: Zweli Sibiya’s inspiring career journey

Zweli Sibiya, has risen from humble beginnings to lead a top-performing dealership in Gauteng, in a story of determination, adaptability, and resilience.

Born in Soweto, Sibiya, 44, started working as a security guard and supplemented his income by selling vegetables at Johannesburg Park Station.

“With no formal tertiary education, I began working as a security guard. To supplement my income, I tapped into ‘my natural selling bug’ where I started selling vegetables at Johannesburg Park Station. It was here that I discovered my sales passion,” he said.

Sibiya said these early experiences taught him valuable lessons about perseverance and respect. “My journey taught me to never stop dreaming, to stay consistent and the courage to start over, even after my vegetable business failed,” he reflected. “Most importantly, it taught me to respect everyone, no matter their background or socio-economic status.”

His potential was recognised by Promise Twala, then-dealer principal at Hyundai The Glen, who offered Sibiya a role as sales manager at their Benoni branch. “Zweli attracted my attention through his passion, impeccable work ethic, positive attitude and humility. Seeing potential where others might have unintentionally overlooked it, I offered him a position as sales manager at Benoni,” Twala said.

Sibiya excelled in the role and eventually succeeded Twala as dealer principal.

“Zweli is very teachable and has a strong ability to take punches (constructive criticism) without sulking. He nailed each task that was given to him, with excellence,” Twala added.

Sibiya now leads a 38-member team in a competitive automotive market, crediting mentorship and consistent effort for his growth. His story illustrates the importance of determination, learning from setbacks, and making the most of opportunities.