Page 60 - Logistics News - Issue 01 - 2024.indd

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Mother of three takes home 2023

#ThankYouTrucker award

CYNTHIA THALA, a dedicated Bulk Vehicle Operator with
Unitrans, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming
the first woman to secure the coveted title of the 2023
#ThankYouTrucker competition. “This prestigious
victory not only highlights Cynthia’s exceptional skills
and unwavering commitment to her profession, but also
underscores the invaluable contributions of women in the
trucking industry,” says Carli Venter, Chief Strategy Officer
at Unitrans, speaking at the award presentation ceremony.
“Her remarkable achievement is a testament to her
determination and dedication and Unitrans is immensely
proud to have her as part of our team.”

Cynthia started her career as a bus driver. Her
fascination with the world of truck driving began as she
observed bulk trucks making deliveries during her previous
job. Despite discouragement from friends who deemed it
an unconventional choice for a woman, her husband stood
firmly by her side, encouraging her to pursue her dream. She Gavin Kelly (CEO of the RFA), Cynthia Thala (winner of the 2023
embarked on her journey with Unitrans in March 2019 as #ThankYouTrucker competition) and Martin Liebenberg (MD of
the first female Bulk Vehicle Operator (BVO) – another first IVECO).
for her and Unitrans.
grandmother, who sold vegetables to support us. It is not
Having dedicated four years to Unitrans, Cynthia is easy to drive alone at night, but God is with me, so I don’t
well-versed in her responsibilities and duties as a driver. fear. We are all striving to be the best.” Thala intends to
She meticulously inspects her vehicle before and after trips, share her cash award of R50,000 with her family, which
prioritising on-time deliveries while maintaining a steadfast includes an orphaned child that she homes, and will invest
commitment to safety, not only for herself, but for those the remainder. Her aspirations include co-owning a trucking
around her as well. Cynthia’s unwavering dedication and business with her husband in the future.
reliability are evident in her track record, which includes
delivering 11.4 million litres without incident, with zero The #ThankYouTrucker competition is a project of the
cross-overs and spills; completing 855 trips and 952 drops; Road Freight Association (RFA) and IVECO SA that was
achieving 651 days without injury, ensuring her personal initiated three years ago. The aim of the competition is to
safety; and maintaining 651 days without violating life- recognise, celebrate and reward our unsung heroes on the
saving rules. road, our truck drivers.

A delighted Vusi Nkuna, General Manager at Unitrans Martin Liebenberg, Managing Director of IVECO,
and Thala’s Line Manager, thanked IVECO and the Road commented that the competition has grown and that this
Freight Association (RFA), as well as Thala. Nkuna said that year had the highest number of entries. “Cynthia’s win
Thala had never shied away from challenges and embraced shows that trucking is no longer just a man’s world,” he said,
all opportunities. “We are proud of you, Cynthia. You are adding that she is a beacon of hope for all women in South
an ambassador and a role model for our business and our Africa.
team!”
Congratulations also go to Gerhardus ‘Pikkie’ Klaase
On winning the award, Thala thanked her team and and Nkosinathi Peaceman Chiliza, who came in second and
family. She added: “In particular, I would like to thank my third places respectively. •

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