Autism Activist, Nkazimulo Mngomezulu and his mother flanked by staff members from Key West Tiger Wheel and Tyres
By Thabo Motlabi
Roodepoort, July 18, 2025- In a heartfelt celebration of Mandela Day, Tiger Wheel and Tyre’s Key West Branch hosted a special event in honour of 15-year-old autism activist Nkazimulo Mngomezulu.
The Roodepoort-based teenager was officially recognised as a superfan of the Tiger Wheel and Tyre in a moment that blended inclusion, awareness, and inspiration with the true spirit of Mandela’s legacy.
Mandela Day is celebrated annually on July 18, calling on people across South Africa and the world to honour Madiba’s memory by making a difference in their communities. This year’s event at Tiger Wheel and Tyre showcased how unity and advocacy can transform lives and build bridges of understanding, especially for the neurodivergent community.
The collaboration between autism activist Nkazimulo and Tiger Wheel and Tyre was born out of a shared mission: to promote neurodiversity and inclusion and to educate the public about autism and other disabilities. The event marked the official handover of autism activist Nkazimulo’s title as a super fan, supported by both the Key West Branch team and a representative from the Tiger Wheel and Tyre Head Office team.
As a superfan of Tiger Wheel and Tyre, autism activist Nkazimulo said, “I’m thrilled to be part of this big brand, to become their face as a superfan. I know it comes with responsibility, rules, and duties. We must make sure that clients are always satisfied with our services. I will continue to work hard and promote this brand on all my social platforms.
I’m genuinely grateful for the support I get from Key West staff. They’re always patient with me, and I’m willing to learn. One of the most unforgettable moments of my journey here was meeting the CEO and the brand’s founder, who shared with me how he started this company. One day, I see myself being part of this big brand.”
This event was filled with joy, encouragement, and celebration as staff, community members, and family came together to support autism activist Nkazimulo’s journey and achievements.
The Retail Manager of the Tiger Wheel and Tyre Brand, Mrs. Natasha Taylor, said, “We are writing to inform you that we have been deeply touched and inspired by your journey, your story, and your passion for the Tiger Wheel and Tyre Brand.” You are a remarkable young man who has overcome so many challenges through your strength and determination, as well as the love, support, and dedication of your mother.
You were told you wouldn’t be able to talk and walk like other children; those early years must have been a challenging period. But with the help of your mother, you overcame so many obstacles and triumphed by learning to speak by the age of 7 years. And today, you stand tall, walking with pride.
You are an autism awareness activist, and you and your mother have spent countless valuable hours educating and raising awareness around the world, which you should be proud of. Your love for the Tiger Wheel and Tyre brand started when you heard our Jingle bells on Kaya FM around 3 years ago. You have spent your birthday years at one of our stores, and we know you love to spend your spare time there.
In April 2025, you celebrated your birthday at the Key West Branch, and there was a strong drive for autism awareness as one of your wishes. Our Head Office is delighted to help make it come true. Your enthusiasm for our Tiger Wheel and Tyre Brand demonstrates that you are our biggest fan, our number one supporter.”
The Tiger Wheel and Tyre Initiative demonstrates the need for inclusive representation and support for all communities—particularly children and youth with Autism. The brand hopes that this partnership will not only uplift autism activist Nkazimulo but also inspire others to embrace diversity and act with compassion.
As Mandela famously said, ” It is in the character of growth that we should learn from both pleasant and unpleasant experiences. ”
On this Mandela Day, Tiger Wheel and Tyre took another step forward in honouring that truth.
