Johannesburg – July 2026. As the world becomes increasingly driven by technology and innovation, South Africa’s competitiveness depends on developing a strong pipeline of STEM talent ready for a fast-changing economy.

This commitment comes to life this Mandela Day as founding partners Saab Grintek Defence, Lanseria International Airport (HLA) and the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) join forces to host the 3rd Annual Nelson Mandela International Day Career Expo on Friday, 17 July 2026, from 09:00 to 17:00 at Lanseria International Airport.

The Expo will welcome more than 600 attendees, including Grade 9 to 12 learners from schools across Gauteng. Learners will be introduced to the exciting, future-focused career pathways available in aviation, engineering, technology, defence and the broader STEM fields.

Across the globe, demand for STEM-related skills continues to grow as artificial intelligence, automation and digital technologies transform the way industries operate. South Africa is no exception, yet many learners are not fully aware of the opportunities open to them in aviation, defence and technology. The Expo responds directly to this gap; exposure and awareness are the critical first steps towards building the engineers, technicians, data scientists and innovators the country will need.

According to Brenda Talazo, Vice President of HR and business enablement at Saab Grintek Defence, the future success of South Africa’s economy will depend on its ability to develop a strong pipeline of skilled professionals equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving world.

“The industries shaping the future are increasingly powered by technology, innovation and specialised expertise. Whether we are talking about artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software development, systems engineering or aviation technologies – the common denominator is people with the right skills,” says Talazo.

Each founding partner brings a distinct contribution to the day. Lanseria International Airport, as host, opens its working aviation environment to learners, offering a first-hand view of the many careers that keep an international airport running. The South African Civil Aviation Authority provides insight into regulatory, safety and licensing career paths across the civil aviation sector. Saab Grintek Defence showcases careers in systems engineering, cybersecurity, software development and defence technology, supported by its ongoing bursary, internship and graduate development programmes. They are joined by exhibitors such as the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Aviation Cor-ordination Services (ACS).

Through interactive exhibitions, career talks and direct engagement with professionals working in highly specialised environments, the Expo aims to inspire learners with real world applications of science, technology and engineering, and to honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy through meaningful investment in young people.

“Our greatest resource is our people. “By investing in young talent and creating pathways into STEM careers, we are contributing not only to individual success but to the future growth, innovation and resilience of South Africa as a whole. For South Africa to remain competitive, we need to encourage more young people to explore STEM subjects and understand the impact these careers can have on society,” concludes Talazo.