Kariega is gearing up for the return of one of the Eastern Cape’s premier automotive events as the RMI Motor Mech & Alles-op-Wiele Show takes place at Daniel Pienaar Technical High School on 29 August. The annual event combines motoring enthusiasm with technical skills development, offering learners and families an engaging day of education and entertainment.
A key highlight this year will be the return of Tashne Wait, who made history in 2025 as the first young woman to win the MIWA Junior Motor Mech Competition. While she will not be competing this year, Wait will take on a new role as part of the judging and mentorship team, sharing her experience and encouraging participants as they test their technical abilities.
Her groundbreaking victory helped challenge traditional perceptions within the automotive sector, demonstrating that success in the industry is driven by skill, dedication and determination rather than stereotypes. Her presence at this year’s event is expected to inspire a new generation of aspiring technicians, particularly young women considering careers in the trade.
RMI Eastern Cape Regional Manager Peter van Mosseveld said the event plays an important role in showcasing the value of technical careers to young people. He explained that the competition exposes learners to real-world workshop skills, including problem-solving, precision and the ability to perform under pressure. According to van Mosseveld, seeing a former champion return as a mentor perfectly reflects the purpose of the initiative.
MIWA Eastern Cape representative Lance Kettle highlighted the significance of Wait’s journey during Women’s Month. He said her success proves that passion, commitment and talent are the qualities that matter in the automotive industry. He believes her involvement as a mentor will encourage more young women to explore technical career opportunities that may previously have seemed out of reach.
Visitors attending the event can look forward to a diverse programme that includes the MIWA Junior Motor Mech Competition, the popular Alles-op-Wiele Car Show featuring classic and customised vehicles, and exhibitions from vehicle manufacturers, workshops, parts suppliers and industry partners.
Beyond the automotive attractions, families can enjoy food stalls, a tea garden, a craft market and a variety of activities designed for children, making the event a suitable outing for all ages.
For learners interested in entering the automotive sector, the show provides valuable opportunities to connect with industry professionals, learn about training pathways and discover the wide range of career options available within South Africa’s retail motor industry.
Daniel Pienaar Technical High School, one of the country’s oldest technical schools, will once again host the event. The institution has a long-standing reputation for promoting artisan development and equipping young people with practical skills that contribute to economic growth.
Kettle said the competition consistently reveals the impressive technical potential of South African youth. Whether participants pursue careers as technicians, diagnostic specialists, business owners or entrepreneurs, he believes events such as these help learners recognise and develop their potential.
Tickets are priced at R75 for adults, R65 for pensioners and R35 for scholars. Children younger than 10 can attend free of charge.
