The Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), in proud partnership with the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), has officially launched the 2025 season of Motor Mech – and it’s gearing up to be the most dynamic chapter yet. The season opener, taking place on 21 June at Port Rex Technical High School in East London, promises a full day of hands-on learning, high-energy competition, and meaningful engagement – all geared towards inspiring the next generation of automotive professionals.
At its core, Motor Mech is more than just an exhibition. It’s a movement designed to spotlight the rich career opportunities that exist within South Africa’s automotive aftermarket sector – a sector that remains robust, innovative, and crucial to the country’s economy.
“MIWA remains committed to creating platforms that encourage young talent to explore careers in our industry,” says Pieter Niemand, National Director of MIWA. “With the unemployment crisis facing our youth, events like Motor Mech highlight the many rewarding career paths available – and this year, we’re taking things to the next level.”
A Celebration of Skill, Learning, and Community
Staying true to its roots, the 2025 edition of Motor Mech will showcase the best of the industry through interactive exhibits by local workshops, suppliers, and dealers. Visitors can expect a diverse array of demonstrations, product displays, and expert-led sessions offering insights into the world of automotive mechanics and maintenance.
A highlight of the event remains the Motor Mech Junior Mechanic Competition – a high-stakes, high-skill contest that pits student technicians against one another in a series of practical challenges. It’s a thrilling opportunity for young participants to test their technical knowledge, demonstrate their problem-solving abilities, and earn recognition in front of industry professionals.
New for 2025: Sport, STEM, and Scholarship
This year introduces several exciting new features designed to broaden the event’s appeal and impact:
- Interschools Sports Derby Day: A spirited showdown between Hudson Park High School and Port Rex Technical High School will bring a sense of camaraderie and school pride to the day’s festivities.
- Kiddies’ Area & Interact Clubs: Family-friendly fun is on the agenda with a dedicated space for children, hosted by the schools’ Interact Clubs. All proceeds will go toward supporting youth-led community development projects.
- SAICE Bridge Building Competition: Adding a fresh STEM-focused edge, this civil engineering challenge invites learners to test their structural skills and creativity in an exhilarating hands-on competition, in partnership with the South African Institution of Civil Engineering.
Yet, it’s MIWA’s groundbreaking bursary announcement that’s capturing the industry’s attention.
From 2026 to 2028, selected participants from the Motor Mech competition will receive full bursaries to study and qualify as professional motor mechanics.
“This project is a game-changer,” explains Niemand. “It provides real opportunity and real access to technical careers, while addressing skills shortages in our industry. Through initiatives like this, we’re turning potential into purpose.”
Building a Bridge to the Future
Backed by the RMI’s network of sister associations, local educators, and industry stakeholders, Motor Mech is a blueprint for what meaningful youth development should look like. It connects education with employment, interest with industry, and talent with tangible opportunity.
So, whether you’re a parent, student, educator, or simply a motoring enthusiast, don’t miss the action on 21 June from 09:00 to 14:00 at Port Rex Technical High School, 55 Chamberlain Road, Vincent, East London. Entry is just R20 per adult, and kids under 12 get in free when accompanied by an adult.
Come celebrate the energy, creativity, and ambition of South Africa’s future – and be part of the movement that’s driving the automotive industry forward.
