Youth unemployment is an unfortunate fate that two Hudson Park High School grade 11 pupils intend to avoid by launching their own small business and taking the first steps into entrepreneurship.
Joshua Roux and Jadan Grobler are the proud co-founders of JJ’s Auto Solutions, a car wash business, based at 84 Chamberlain Road, Vincent. At just 16, turning 17 this month, these two friends are learning the ropes of entrepreneurship the hands-on way.
The duo, who describe themselves as proud Hudsonians, credit the school for inculcating them with entrepreneurial values.
Joshua said: “Hudson has shaped us in countless ways, teaching us values such as camaraderie and resilience. It was through this school that we met, and from that moment on, a strong bond of brotherhood was formed.”
That brotherhood became the bedrock of JJ’s Auto Solutions; a business which the two say is built on trust, loyalty, and shared ambition.
Jadan added: “Not many businesses offer young people the opportunity to gain real-world experience so we decided to create that opportunity for ourselves.”
JJ’s offers affordable but professional deep interior & exterior cleans, starting from R80 for cars and R110 for SUVs, bakkies, and vans. Services include a high-pressure rinse, hand wash and dry, rim and tyre cleaning with a shine finish, interior vacuuming and wiping of all surfaces, and a refreshing scent to top it off.
Their slogan ‘experience the power of perfection’ captures the attention to detail they bring to every car.
“It’s more than a line. It’s our promise,” Jadan said. “Whether it’s a quick wash or a deep clean, we always give our best.”
JJ’s operates strictly by appointment, allowing each customer to receive focused, punctual service.
“We work around bookings so there’s no need to queue,” Joshua explains.
Balancing school, life, and business is no easy task, but the pair learnt the value of planning.
“We use a tight and organised schedule each month. Time management has become one of our most valuable tools,” Jadan said. “And our classmates and teachers have been supportive and some have even booked their own cars!”
They’ve also learned first-hand that success isn’t about shortcuts but is about consistency, discipline, and hard work.
The pair said: “It’s not just a business. It’s an experience that’s teaching us life skills and responsibility. We’re proud of what we’ve built with our own hands.”
Behind the scenes are two proud mothers, Sherriann Roux and Chantal Grobler, who have supported their sons from the start.
“It was inspiring to see their initiative, excitement, and entrepreneurial spirit at such a young age,” Sherriann said. “We thought this was a wonderful opportunity for them to start learning how to work and run something meaningful.”
The moms have played a vital role in helping the boys get JJ’S Auto Solutions off the ground, providing uniforms, equipment, transport, and business advice. “But more than money or supplies, it was about giving them our time, energy, and attention,” adds Chantal. “We had to adjust our schedules to support them on weekends, with supplies and guidance.”
They’ve watched their sons mature into responsible young men.
“They’ve learned how to plan, gain and keep clients, communicate, and most importantly, show up. They now understand the value of a rand because they’ve earned it,” Sherriann said.
“One Saturday, when they were fully booked, they stood together and worked like a well-oiled machine, determined to deliver quality service with a smile after each car. It was incredible.”
Their advice to other parents is: “Don’t underestimate your child’s ideas just because they’re young. This is a golden opportunity, not a distraction.
“We hope this becomes more than just a way to earn money, that it becomes a foundation for lifelong skills and confidence. Whether it leads to bigger ventures or simply gives them courage to chase their goals that would be success.”
Hudson Park High School applauded Joshua and Jadan’s entrepreneurial journey.
“We are incredibly proud of Joshua and Jadan for their entrepreneurial drive and commitment to building something of their own while still in school,” Hudson Park marketing & public relations officer Donna Bartlett said.
“Their car wash business is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when young people combine initiative and hard work. Hudson Park High School applauds them for their ambition and dedication,” said Bartlett.
To support these determined young entrepreneurs and give your car the care it deserves, book a clean with JJ’S Auto Solutions: 84 Chamberlain Road, Vincent, East London, 083-275-0084, 064-930-2810 or email: jjssautosolutions08@gmail.com.
