East London, 21 June 2025 – A bold new chapter has begun for South Africa’s automotive industry and its future artisans, with the national launch of Project Dineo at the MIWA Motor Mech Show hosted by Port Rex Technical High School in East London. This groundbreaking youth development initiative promises to open doors for 100 talented young South Africans each year over the next three years—offering not only skills development, but a tangible pathway into the world of work.
A collaboration between the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), merSETA, Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, and the Presidency, Project Dineo is more than just a programme—it is a lifeline to meaningful, sustainable careers for youth from underrepresented backgrounds, particularly women and persons with disabilities.
“Dineo means ‘gift’ in Sotho, and that’s exactly what this initiative represents: a gift of opportunity to our youth, our industry, and our nation,” said RMI CEO Ipeleng Mabusela. “Through mentorships, apprenticeships, and targeted skills training, we are shaping a new generation of artisans who will play a vital role in South Africa’s economic transformation.”
A Purposeful Launch in a Province of Potential
The project was unveiled at the first MIWA Motor Mech Show of the 2025 season—a fitting stage for a youth empowerment initiative. Held at Port Rex Technical High School, a renowned centre for technical excellence, the event united learners, educators, industry leaders, and communities under a common vision: to ignite passion and showcase real career prospects in the automotive space.
“Motor Mech is not just a competition,” Mabusela emphasised. “It is a dynamic platform that connects stakeholders and sparks curiosity, especially in the minds of young learners. It makes the automotive sector visible—and attainable.”
The Eastern Cape, and East London in particular, were strategically chosen for the national launch. With youth unemployment a pressing concern—especially in areas like Mdantsane—the province stands as both a challenge and an opportunity. As Mabusela noted, “This project is about the forgotten places and the forgotten youth.”
With over 890 RMI member employers in the region, the capacity to offer real, high-quality work experience is already embedded—and growing.
Building Talent Through Practical, Supported Learning
Project Dineo is structured around a blend of high-quality public TVET college education, training from accredited providers, and crucially, Work Integrated Learning (WIL) placements with RMI-accredited employers. The goal is simple but transformative: to ensure each participant has not only theoretical knowledge, but also practical, industry-based experience that makes them work-ready.
Louis van Huyssteen, RMI National Training Director, underscored the programme’s future-facing value:
“In today’s fast-evolving automotive landscape, being an artisan means engaging with advanced diagnostics, cutting-edge tools, and digital technologies. Apprenticeships today are not just about training—they’re about building lifelong, respected careers.”
Keynote support for the project came from leaders across government and industry, including Sabelo Buthelezi, Chief Director for Special Projects at the Department of Higher Education, who called on employers to deepen their involvement:
“Colleges must become institutions that employers trust. But that trust hinges on real-world readiness, and that’s where employers come in. Without you, learning remains incomplete. But with your mentorship, we can transform it into something powerful.”
merSETA acting CEO Naphtaly Mokgotsane echoed the sentiment, highlighting that the true value of talent lies in its development:
“Dineo is a gift—but also a talent. When we close skills gaps, we unlock potential. That’s the true purpose of our partnerships.”
A Launch Rooted in Hope and Action
For Port Rex Principal Ettiene Theron, the day’s events represented a watershed moment:
“We see every day the hunger for opportunity among our learners. Project Dineo is not just another initiative—it’s a beacon. It shows our youth that the future is not something they have to wait for. It’s something they can build.”
Eleven technical training grants were awarded on the day to Motor Mech participants, symbolising the tangible, immediate impact of the programme. From practical competitions to career showcases, the show bustled with energy and potential—exactly the kind of spark Project Dineo aims to fan into a flame.
Driving the Future, One Artisan at a Time
As South Africa strives to tackle youth unemployment, skills shortages, and gender imbalances in technical trades, Project Dineo offers more than just a vision. It offers a working solution, backed by industry, government, and education providers, with the power to change lives.
One apprentice.
One skill.
One career at a time.
Project Dineo is on the move—and it’s driving the future forward.
