When Bopane “Mike” Mothemela had car trouble on the N2, he saw an opportunity to turn his misfortune into a business. Soon after, Mickey’s Mobile Mechanics and Mickey’s Student Emergency Car Services (MSECS) were born. Bopane, a fourth year audiology student works in tandem with fifth-year medical student Lefa Kekana.

MSECS comes to the rescue of stranded students by providing a car towing service, and tyre, battery and fuel assistance. These services are even more relevant in the Faculty due to the vast majority of students using their own cars to attend block sites or calls.

“I am motivated by the desire to address student needs,” says Mothemela, whose experience made him aware that some students from outside Cape Town are not able to rely on insurance or parental help at the scene when stranded.

Another concern is student safety. Being stuck on the highway, for example, leaves one vulnerable to crime. MSECS puts student safety first by making sure staff are reliable and trustworthy.

The new businesses speak to the innovation of the Faculty’s students showing their careers are not only limited to the health sector. Having started with one certified mechanic, Mothemala has now entered into partnerships with various car workshops and service providers around the city, and he has branched out into Pretoria.

“We’re available 24 hours, [and our] service is fast, professional and affordable for the student budget,” he says.