Motor Mech Show East London

Motor Mech Show East London The Motor Industry Workshops Association - proud member of Retail Motor Industry - is proud to host

The Motor Mech Show at Port Rex Technical High School in East London was a powerful start to the 2026 season, bringing l...
17/06/2026

The Motor Mech Show at Port Rex Technical High School in East London was a powerful start to the 2026 season, bringing learners, educators, industry partners and the wider East London community together in support of young technical talent.

An event like this takes planning, school commitment, industry support, sponsorship, judging expertise and a shared belief that young people deserve opportunities to be encouraged and developed.

Reflecting on the heart behind the event, Teresa Spenser Higgs, NEC member, Retail Motor Industry Organisation - RMI Board member and Chairperson of RMI Eastern Cape, said:

“There are times as event organisers when we ask whether all the effort is worth it. Then a student or past participant comes up to thank us for the difference the competition has made in their lives. Those moments remind us why we do this and motivate us to continue making a difference, one student at a time.”

A sincere thank you to Port Rex Technical High School for once again hosting the event and creating a space where learners could test their skills, build confidence and represent their school with pride. Hosting a competition of this nature takes enormous effort, and the commitment from the school, its technical department and its learners was clear throughout the day.

Special acknowledgement goes to Peter van Mosseveld, Retail Motor Industry Organisation - RMI Regional Manager and Consumer Affairs Specialist for the Eastern Cape, whose dedication, energy and commitment were instrumental in bringing this year’s event to life. His fresh approach to the NADA section of the competition contributed significantly to its success, and his passion for the industry and the region continues to help grow initiatives like Motor Mech.

Thank you also to Abie Kriek, SAMBRA Regional Representative, for the successful launch of a new MBR competition at Baysville Technical School, focusing on spray-painting and body-building. This momentum reflects the broader commitment across RMI associations to developing young talent and expanding practical opportunities within the automotive sector.

A big thank you to the judges, who gave their time, knowledge and guidance to assess the learners fairly and professionally. Your role is vital in helping learners understand the standards, focus and discipline required in the industry.

And finally, thank you to the sponsors who each sponsored one of the five competition sections: Auto X, Midas Bowls Road, Goldwagen, ATE and NGK

Thank you to every organiser, exhibitor, teacher, parent, sponsor and industry partner who contributed to the success of the day.

Motor Mech is strongest when schools, industry and communities work together — and East London showed exactly what that collaboration can achieve.

The East London Motor Mech Show opened the 2026 season with an inspiring display of learner talent at Port Rex Technical...
17/06/2026

The East London Motor Mech Show opened the 2026 season with an inspiring display of learner talent at Port Rex Technical High School.

Thirteen Grade 12 learners took part in MIWA’s Junior Motor Mech Competition, testing their practical skills, technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities in a real-world workshop environment.

A huge congratulations to the top three learners:

🥇 1st place: Luke Wesson
🥈 2nd place: Somila Ligaba
🥉 3rd place: Lingomso Nkewana

For winner 𝗟𝘂𝗸𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗻, the result was the reward for months of focus and preparation.
“This achievement has been a goal of mine since 2024. I have been working hard at home, studying and practising every weekend, so it shows that my hard work has paid off. It greatly improves my chances of one day owning my own workshop,” said Wesson.

Second-placed 𝗦𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗮 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗯𝗮 described the experience as both enjoyable and educational. He said the competition taught him valuable lessons about diagnostics and fault-finding, especially the importance of sticking to the basics before simply replacing components. Working on an actual vehicle also helped build his confidence and practical experience.

Third-placed 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗼𝗺𝘀𝗼 𝗡𝗸𝗲𝘄𝗮𝗻𝗮 said the competition had strengthened his determination to pursue a career in the industry and motivated him to continue his studies and seek further opportunities.

According to Mark Hammond, Head of Technical Workshops at Port Rex Technical High School, the competition brings out qualities that are not always visible in the classroom.

“The competition tests learners’ abilities and experience under pressure and brings out the best in those who have the desire to pursue a career in the technical field. It often highlights learners whom we never expected to excel and who go on to pursue successful careers in the industry,” he said.

Competition judge Lance Kettles, Eastern Cape Regional Representative, also highlighted the value of workplace exposure.

“The students who participated in job shadowing during school holidays demonstrated substantially more confidence and knowledge. Competitions such as Motor Mech create a sense of pride and belonging while removing some of the fear associated with entering the trade by introducing learners to the industry at an early stage,” said Kettles.

Well done to Luke, Somila, Lingomso and every learner who stepped up, stayed focused under pressure and gave the industry a glimpse of the young talent coming through.

The competition is on at the Motor Mech Show East London! 🔧👏Port Rex Technical High School learners are already focused ...
06/06/2026

The competition is on at the Motor Mech Show East London! 🔧👏

Port Rex Technical High School learners are already focused and hard at work in MIWA's Junior Motor Mech Competition, taking on the practical challenges set before them today.

This is where technical knowledge, problem-solving, patience and confidence come together. From identifying components to working through practical workshop-style tasks, these learners are showing the focus and determination that the motor industry needs.

It’s wonderful to see young talent stepping up, being challenged, and getting the chance to demonstrate what they can do in a real, hands-on environment.

Come on down, support the learners, meet the exhibitors, explore the industry displays and be part of a day that celebrates practical skills, future careers and the next generation of artisans and technicians.

📍 Port Rex Technical High School, 55 Chamberlain Road, Vincent, East London
🕘 Event runs until 14:00
🎟 R20 adults | Under 12s free

It’s a beautiful sunny morning in East London, and the Motor Mech Show is officially underway! ☀️🚘🔧Port Rex Technical Hi...
06/06/2026

It’s a beautiful sunny morning in East London, and the Motor Mech Show is officially underway! ☀️🚘🔧

Port Rex Technical High School is buzzing as exhibitors set up, learners arrive, and the local motor industry comes together for a day focused on skills, opportunity and community.

If you’re visiting today, there’s plenty to experience. Come meet the exhibitors, chat to industry role players, explore automotive products and services, and get a closer look at the many career pathways available in the motor industry. It’s a great opportunity for learners and parents to ask questions, connect with people already working in the sector, and see how practical skills can grow into real careers.

You’ll also be able to support the learners taking part in MIWA’s Junior Motor Mech Competition, where young technical talent will be putting their knowledge, focus and problem-solving skills to the test.

Whether you’re passionate about cars, curious about technical careers, or simply looking for a purposeful community event to support, come on down, East London — we’d love to see you here!

📍 Port Rex Technical High School, 55 Chamberlain Road, Vincent, East London
🕘 Gates open from 09:00 | Event runs until 14:00
🎟 R20 adults | Under 12s free

06/06/2026

Crisp fresh early morning setup for the 5th Motor Mech show East London

The Motor Mech Show East London takes place tomorrow, 6 June 2026, at Port Rex Technical High School and we can’t wait t...
05/06/2026

The Motor Mech Show East London takes place tomorrow, 6 June 2026, at Port Rex Technical High School and we can’t wait to see young technical talent in action.

This Youth Month event is about more than competition. It is about confidence, opportunity, and showing young people that practical skills can open real doors in the motor industry.

Come and support the learners as they take on MIWA’s Junior Motor Mech Competition, meet local industry role players, explore automotive career pathways, and enjoy a purposeful, family-friendly day with the East London community.

There will be new car displays, workshop and industry displays, career exposure, Lucky Draws, and food vendors.

Event details:
🗓 Date: Saturday, 6 June 2026
🕘 Time: 09:00–14:00
📍 Venue: Port Rex Technical High School, 55 Chamberlain Road, Vincent, East London
🎟 Entry: R20 adults | Under 12s free

Bring the family, support the learners, and come see what the next generation of artisans and technicians can do.

If you’re in East London this Saturday, 6 June 2026, make your way to Port Rex Technical High School for the Motor Mech ...
03/06/2026

If you’re in East London this Saturday, 6 June 2026, make your way to Port Rex Technical High School for the Motor Mech Show.

Whether you’re a learner, parent, teacher, employer, workshop owner, supplier, training provider, or member of the community, this event offers a meaningful look into the future of South Africa’s motor industry.

Here’s why it is worth attending:

1. 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
MIWA’s Junior Motor Mech Competition gives learners a chance to take on practical automotive challenges and show their technical knowledge, focus and problem-solving skills under pressure.

2. 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀
The motor industry offers many exciting career paths, from mechanics and technicians to diagnostics, parts, workshop management, business ownership and more.

3. 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿𝘀
Workshops, suppliers, training providers, and service partners will be part of the event, helping learners and parents understand what opportunities exist beyond the classroom.

4. 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀
Some young people shine brightest when they are working with their hands. Motor Mech helps celebrate those strengths and shows learners that practical ability has real value.

5. 𝗕𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗽𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲
Not only is this a competition, it is also a community-driven platform that connects education, industry, and opportunity.

6. 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝘅’𝘀 𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲
Port Rex Technical High School has become an important home for Motor Mech in the Eastern Cape, with strong support from learners, educators, parents, and the local industry.

7. 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆
The day will include a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗱𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀
🗓 Date: Saturday, 6 June 2026
🕘 Time: 09:00–14:00
📍 Venue: Port Rex Technical High School, 55 Chamberlain Road, Vincent, East London
🎟 Entry: R20 adults | Under 12s free

Come support the learners, meet the industry, and be inspired by what is possible when young people are given the chance to show what they can do.

June is Youth Month in South Africa — a time to recognise young people, their potential, and the pathways we need to cre...
01/06/2026

June is Youth Month in South Africa — a time to recognise young people, their potential, and the pathways we need to create for their future.

For MIWA, that future includes the young people who are naturally practical.

• The ones who enjoy taking things apart to see how they work.
• The ones who are good with their hands.
• The ones who solve problems quietly, patiently, and creatively.
• The ones who may not always see themselves in traditional career conversations, but who have skills South Africa urgently needs.

That is why Motor Mech Shows matter.

Taking place at Port Rex Technical High School in East London this Saturday, 6 June 2026, the event gives learners hands-on exposure to the auto industry and helps them see the incredible opportunities available through technical and automotive careers.

MIWA’s Junior Motor Mech Competition gives young people a chance to test their knowledge, show their confidence, and demonstrate what they can do under pressure.

Motor Mech is about opening doors, building confidence, showing parents and teachers that practical skills are valuable, and reminding industry that young talent needs visibility, mentorship, and opportunity.

The day will also include new car display, supplier and industry displays, career exposure, and Lucky Draws, as well as a family-friendly atmosphere and food vendors.

This Youth Month, let’s celebrate the learners who can build, repair, diagnose, and create.

Event details:
🗓 Date: Saturday, 6 June 2026
🕘 Time: 09:00–14:00
📍 Venue: Port Rex Technical High School, 55 Chamberlain Road, Vincent, East London
🎟 Entry: R20 adults | Under 12s free

SAVE THE DATE, EAST LONDON | The Motor Mech Show East London returns to Port Rex Technical High School on Saturday, 6 Ju...
27/05/2026

SAVE THE DATE, EAST LONDON | The Motor Mech Show East London returns to Port Rex Technical High School on Saturday, 6 June 2026, and this year promises to be bigger than ever.

Not every young person is meant to sit behind a desk.

Some come alive when they are working with their hands. Some love solving problems. Some have the patience to figure out faults, the curiosity to ask why, and the confidence to try again when something doesn’t work the first time.

Those are the kinds of skills the motor industry needs.

The Motor Mech Show gives learners hands-on exposure to the world of automotive careers in a practical, exciting, and meaningful way. It also gives parents, teachers, employers, and the community a chance to see what young technical talent can really do.

At the heart of the event is MIWA’s Junior Motor Mech Competition, where learners take on practical challenges designed to test their technical knowledge, accuracy, problem-solving ability, and calmness under pressure.

Expect a purposeful, community-focused day with:
🔧 Young technical talent in action
🚘 Industry displays and automotive career exposure
🤝 Interaction between learners, educators, and industry
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 A family-friendly atmosphere
🌟 Inspiration for future artisans, technicians, and workshop leaders

Event details:
🗓 Date: Saturday, 6 June 2026
🕘 Time: 09:00–14:00
📍 Venue: Port Rex Technical High School, 55 Chamberlain Road, Vincent, East London
🎟 Entry: R20 adults | Under 12s free

Whether you’re a learner, parent, teacher, workshop owner, supplier, training provider, or simply someone who believes in giving young people practical opportunities, this is one to diarise.

Save the date and come see the future of the motor industry in action.

Can’t believe it’s our 5th year Who will be crowned 👑 champion this year and have their name saved alongside these past ...
22/05/2026

Can’t believe it’s our 5th year
Who will be crowned 👑 champion this year and have their name saved alongside these past winners

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Port Rex Technical High School
East London
5247

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