Excitement is revving up for the 2025 Motor Mech Show, taking place at Port Rex Technical High School in East London on Saturday, 21 June. Now in its fourth year, this much-anticipated event is hosted by the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), has become a key Youth Month celebration.
“This event continues to grow from strength to strength, and every year we see the impact it has on students, parents, and industry partners alike,” says Teresa Spenser Higgs, RMI Eastern Cape Chairperson. “It’s the perfect mix of entertainment and education, showcasing real opportunities in the automotive sector and drawing young talent into our workshops.”
Colleague Peter van Mosseveld, RMI Regional Manager and Consumer Affairs Specialist for the Eastern Cape, adds that in addition to the always-popular Motor Mech Junior Mechanic competition, this year’s show includes some exciting new elements such as a spirited Interschools Sports Derby Day between Hudson Park High School and Port Rex Technical High School, promoting teamwork and school pride; a Kiddies’ Area hosted by the schools’ Interact Clubs, with proceeds supporting youth-led community projects and the SAICE Bridge Building Competition, introducing an exciting, hands-on STEM challenge for aspiring young engineers.
Van Mosseveld says this year as an added bonus MIWA and Port Rex will be offering grade 9 learners and above interested in a career in the automotive sector free aptitude testing. This will take place between the 17 – 21 June. Booking is essential and space needs to be booked directly with MIWA (email: Peter.vanMosseveld@rmi.org.za).
Ettiene Theron, Principal at Port Rex Technical High School says, “Port Rex is thrilled to partner with MIWA again this year. Opportunities where schools and the private automotive sector collaborate are rare and incredibly powerful. Events like Motor Mech give learners a real springboard into the industry: their skills are on display, employers are watching, and top performers often walk straight into apprenticeship offers. We are proud of the fact that our candidates are among the most sought after for employment opportunities in the industrial environment in East London. Working with MIWA and the RMI is a privilege, and it shows what is possible when education and industry pull in the same direction. Our curricula must keep pace with workplace demands, while local businesses can step up with apprenticeships, work-study placements, and even professional development for teachers. That’s how we build a future-ready workforce.”
Tim Kirby, Director of Sport and Coding and Robotics educator at Port Rex concurs saying, “Events like these are key to helping learners connect their academic work with real-world opportunities. At Port Rex, learners complete their matric with an N3 qualification, setting them up for direct entry into N4 mechanical engineering studies or apprenticeships. Unlike mainstream schools, we offer a unique blend of theory and hands-on experience – essential for the demands of our industry,” he explains.
He believes the collaboration between schools and industry is a model that should be adopted more widely. “When learners are exposed to events like Motor Mech, they not only see what’s possible – they’re often recruited directly into apprenticeship pathways. For many, it’s a life-changing moment. These shows bridge the gap between school and employment and highlight the very real value of a technical education.”
Finally, a new and exciting development for 2025 is the official launch of Project Dineo at the Port Rex show – a bold new youth development initiative led by the RMI and supported by merSETA grant funding.
“This project is a game-changer,” says van Mosseveld. “It opens real doors for young people – especially women, persons with disabilities, and youth from disadvantaged backgrounds – who may otherwise never have had access to artisan training. Through this initiative, we’re turning talent into tangible career paths, and we couldn’t be prouder to have it launch in the Eastern Cape.”
Visitors to the event can also look forward to motor workshop displays, prize giveaways, a vibrant hospitality area, kiddies area with the Shongololo train, merSETA career bus and much more.
The event runs from 09:00 to 14:00 at Port Rex Technical High School, 55 Chamberlain Road, Vincent, East London.
Entry is R20 per adult. Children under 12 enter free when accompanied by an adult.
Don’t miss this inspirational day of innovation, competition, and opportunity.
