Gearhead Goddess: The Teenage Mechanic Inspiring a Generation

Meet Daniela Marques, a 17-year-old Brazilian girl who has taken the automotive world by storm. Better known as "Niela Mecanica" or "Dani," this young mechanic has amassed nearly 1 million social media followers, captivating audiences with her expertise in car maintenance and repair.

Empowering the Next Generation of Female Mechanics

From Boredom to Passion

Daniela's journey into the world of mechanics was not a straightforward one. Initially, she had no interest in the field, preferring to help her parents, Jonas and Daiane, with the administrative tasks at their car repair shop. However, her boredom with the bureaucratic side of the business soon led her to explore the more hands-on aspects of the operation.Eager to lend a hand, Daniela began organizing the workshop and assisting her father and uncle, Daniel, with various tasks. It was during one of these moments that her passion for mechanics was ignited. When Daniel asked her to help assemble a new shock absorber, Daniela was captivated by the intricate workings of the vehicle. "He showed me how to remove it, what each part did, where it fit. We lifted the car on the lift and then he showed me everything underneath. I was in love! I didn't know it had all that," she recalls.

Overcoming Skepticism and Proving Her Worth

Daniela's decision to pursue a career in mechanics was not without its challenges. When a teacher at her high school discovered that she had dropped out of a technical program, he chastised her, calling her "stupid" for getting her hands dirty. "He said I was being stupid for getting grease on my hands, and that it wouldn't give me any security in life. The feeling of incapacity was my fuel to prove that I could do anything. I was desperate to learn and this episode gave me a lot of motivation," Daniela recounts.Even her own father, Jonas, had his doubts about Daniela's abilities, witnessing firsthand how some customers at the repair shop treated her with disrespect. "Some people would come to the garage and not respect me, or even respond to my 'good morning'. Others didn't like me working on their car and even asked if I really knew what I was doing," Daniela explains. However, she was determined to prove her mettle, vowing to learn everything from the basics to advanced electronics and programming.

A Social Media Sensation

Daniela's passion and dedication to her craft have not gone unnoticed. In 2021, she began sharing her knowledge and skills on social media, quickly amassing a massive following of nearly 1 million fans, particularly among young women interested in learning about car maintenance and repair."After it became popular on social media, we were able to expand and change our address. We have customers who come from all over the state of Sao Paulo to have their cars repaired by our company. Now we are thinking about moving to Morumbi, in Sao Paulo," says Daniela's proud mother, Daiane.Daniela's success has not only transformed her family's business but has also inspired a new generation of female mechanics. By sharing her expertise and breaking down the stigma surrounding women in the automotive industry, she is paving the way for others to follow in her footsteps.

A Bright Future Ahead

Daniela's journey is a testament to the power of passion, determination, and the willingness to challenge societal norms. From a reluctant helper in her parents' workshop to a social media sensation and a role model for aspiring female mechanics, Daniela's story is one of inspiration and empowerment.As she continues to hone her skills and expand her knowledge, Daniela's future in the automotive industry looks brighter than ever. With her unwavering dedication and the support of her family, she is poised to redefine the landscape of the traditionally male-dominated field, inspiring countless young women to pursue their dreams and break down barriers along the way.