IVECO Drives The Road Of Change With First Female #ThankYouTrucker Winner

#ThankYouTrucker is aimed at celebrating and honouring the hardworking truckers who play a pivotal role in the country’s logistics industry. 

Fast-forward to October 2023, the winner was announced after a public voting round. 

Hailed as one of the finest Bulk Vehicle Operators (BVO), Cynthia Noneka Thala (40) claimed the top spot. Thala, who started her career as a bus driver, was first employed within the Unitrans Total Alrode Operations in 2019. Her cash award for winning the #ThankYouTrucker award totalled R50,000, which she vowed to invest and share with her family, including an orphaned child she looks after.  

“I feel abundantly blessed and I also feel the love of God is with me always. I will never stop believing in Him; He is a miracle maker. Thank you, IVECO for making things happen,” Thala remarked enthusiastically on her win.

Gerhardus (Pikkie) Klaase from Koegelenberg Transport BK in Vredendal was placed second, receiving R10,000 in prize money, and Nkosinathi Peaceman Chiliza from ACT Logistics in Gauteng landed in third place, securing a R5,000 third place award.

At IVECO, inclusivity is not just a buzzword, it’s a concept that is practiced daily through various initiatives. With the transport and logistics industry being predominantly male dominated, it is essential to break down barriers and create a diverse, inclusive workforce that is reflective of our society as a rainbow nation, and Thala’s win is a prime example of that. IVECO is at the forefront of fostering change; we believe in a multitude of perspectives, ideas, and experiences to drive innovation and efficiency in our operations. By actively promoting inclusivity, we are not just creating opportunities for underrepresented groups, but also enhancing our adaptability to the evolving needs of our clients and communities.

Iveco’s Product Marketing Manager, Elvis Mutseura emphasised that #ThankYoutrucker is aimed at paying tribute to those truckers who keep the country’s logistics industry moving, raising awareness about the important contribution the drivers make, and providing motivation for those who want to follow a career in the industry. He added that truck drivers carry a great deal of responsibility, not just in making sure deliveries remain profitable and are delivered timeously, but also in terms of road safety.

Speaking on history being made with Thala as the first female winner, Mutseura commented, “We couldn’t be happier to hand this award to Cynthia, who epitomises the drive, character, and commitment that we look to reward via the #ThankYouTrucker initiative. In a short trucking career, she has already made her mark on the industry and her appreciation for the open road, transportation, and logistics is clear for everyone to see.”

According to Gavin Kelly, CEO of the RFA, “Any incentive that leads to responsible behaviour in trucker performance will have many unseen consumer benefits,” highlighting that service excellence deserves to be rewarded and encouraged.

Thank you to all the individuals and companies who have shown an interest in #ThankYouTrucker since its inception. In the past three years, #ThankYouTrucker has been a testament to the spirit and unwavering commitment of South African truckers in driving the nation’s prosperity and how IVECO is truly committed to driving the road of change by ensuring representation in the industry.

www.iveco.com/southafrica.