Mar 25, 2025 Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), Wilma Oosthuizen, Pieter Niemand,
MIWA appoints new Associational Representative for Pretoria
The Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), is pleased to announce the appointment of Wilma Oosthuizen as the new Associational Representative for Pretoria. With over two decades of experience within the RMI, Oosthuizen brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role.
Her journey with the RMI began in 2004 as a receptionist at the Lynnwood, Pretoria office. Over the years, she has taken on various responsibilities, including membership collections, disciplinary hearings administration, and financial processes. In 2011, she was appointed as the PA to the Regional Director of the Northern Region, later expanding her portfolio to assist with the Equipment and Repair Association (ERA), now known as the Automotive Remanufacturers’ Association (ARA). In 2017, she became the PA to the National Director of MIWA, a position that deepened her understanding of the independent motor repair sector and the needs of MIWA members.
Reflecting on her career progression, Oosthuizen credits her experience as PA to the National Director as an invaluable foundation for her new role. "Having worked closely with MIWA leadership, I have developed strong organisational and communication skills, a deep understanding of strategic vision, and the ability to navigate industry challenges. These skills will enable me to support MIWA members effectively and contribute to the growth and success of the sector," she says.
In her new position, Oosthuizen’s key focus areas will include expanding MIWA’s membership base, strengthening engagement with existing members, and promoting the many benefits of MIWA membership. She highlights membership retention as a key challenge but is confident that regular personal interactions and site visits will reinforce MIWA’s value proposition. "It’s about ensuring that members fully understand and leverage the benefits available to them," she explains. Oosthuizen is particularly enthusiastic about industry training initiatives, especially those aimed at upskilling technicians. "As the automotive sector evolves with rapid advancements in diagnostic tools, electric vehicles, and technology integration, ongoing education is crucial. I look forward to supporting MIWA’s training programmes to help members stay ahead of these changes," she adds.
Commenting on the appointment, Pieter Niemand, National Director of MIWA, expressed his confidence in Oosthuizen’s ability to take on this new challenge. "Wilma’s extensive experience within MIWA and the broader RMI, combined with her passion for the industry and dedication to our members, make her the perfect fit for this role. We look forward to seeing her strengthen MIWA’s presence in Pretoria and support our members in achieving continued success."
Oosthuizen believes that collaboration is key to addressing industry challenges. "The independent motor repair sector has transformed significantly over the years, from advancements in diagnostic technology to the increasing presence of women and minority-owned workshops. By working together, MIWA and its members can navigate these changes successfully and build a stronger, more resilient independent motor repair sector," she says.
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