The Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is bringing its popular Motor Mech Show to KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday, 15 August 2026, with a full day of motoring, skills development and family entertainment at Clairwood Secondary School in Durban.
Held in collaboration with the KZN Classic Car Club, the event promises something for everyone - from learners considering careers in the automotive sector and parents exploring future opportunities, to workshops, suppliers, classic car enthusiasts and the wider community.
At the heart of the event is the MIWA Junior Motor Mech Competition, where learners from Clairwood Secondary School, Phoenix Technical High School and Meadowlands Technical High School will compete in a series of theory and practical challenges designed to test their technical knowledge, diagnostic ability and problem-solving skills.
Morne de Jager, MIWA KwaZulu-Natal Regional Representative, says the competition is about far more than identifying winners.
"Motor Mech is about creating opportunities. Every learner who takes part gains valuable exposure to the realities of the automotive industry while showcasing their talent to potential employers, educators and industry professionals. These young people represent the future of our sector, and we are proud to provide a platform where they can demonstrate what they are capable of."
The event reflects MIWA's ongoing commitment to developing the skilled artisans South Africa will need to support an increasingly sophisticated vehicle parc.
"The automotive industry is evolving rapidly, and today's technicians need far more than traditional mechanical skills. They must be confident using advanced diagnostics, understanding new vehicle technologies and solving increasingly complex problems. Events like Motor Mech help inspire the next generation to pursue careers that are both highly skilled and in growing demand. One of the event's greatest strengths is that it brings together schools, industry, employers and the wider community in one place. Learners gain confidence, parents gain valuable insight into career opportunities, businesses engage with future talent, and visitors enjoy a fantastic day celebrating motoring. Everyone leaves having learned something,” says De Jager.
Beyond the competition itself, visitors can enjoy an impressive line-up of attractions throughout the day, including new and classic vehicle displays, a Show & Shine competition, tow truck displays, workshop exhibitions, automotive suppliers and vendors, lucky draws, a dedicated children's entertainment area, refreshments and more.
The event also provides an opportunity for the public to engage directly with businesses operating across the automotive aftermarket and to gain a better understanding of the diverse career opportunities available within the sector.
MIWA encourages families, schools, industry stakeholders and motoring enthusiasts from across KwaZulu-Natal to support the event and help celebrate the province's emerging automotive talent.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, 15 August 2026
Time: 07:30 – 18:00
Venue: Clairwood Secondary School, 43 Hindson Grove, Clairwood, Durban
Entry: R10 per adult | Children under 10 free