In a show of improvement towards transformation in the workplace and communities within which the company operates, UD Trucks Southern Africa was recognized for spearheading Women and Youth Empowerment and Most Improved BBBEE OEM at the NAAMSA Annual Accelerator Awards hosted at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand.
Naamsa’s Annual Accelerator Awards recognises the best-performing brands across the entire automotive value chain across various segments and categories.
A proud Filip Van den Heede, Managing Director UD Trucks Southern Africa, says the recognition of UD Trucks by the industry highlights the company’s commitment to continually becoming a catalyst for skills development, employment equity, and preferential procurement – an important factor in contributing to the development of sustainable economic activity in the commercial vehicle industry.
“These coveted accolades represent our continued efforts to transform ourselves into a truly South African company. Additionally, I would like to recognize our team for going the extra mile to achieve our current BBBEE status. As a purpose-driven organisation committed to a better life for the planet, people and growth, we remain focused on driving a transformation agenda that goes beyond legislative requirements”.
In line with UD Trucks’ commitment to empowering women and youth, one of the activities the company got involved with was to partner with Commercial Transport Academy (CTA) in developing a women driver training programme.
The UD Trucks Ultimate Women program was formed through this collaboration where 24 women went through driver training, with two Kuzer light-medium duty trucks sponsored by UD Trucks. Its vision extends beyond learning driving skills to make a meaningful contribution to society by delivering value and transforming society.
Commenting on the award, Janet Frost, Director of Human Resources at UD Trucks Southern Africa said: “In recent years, we have made significant progress in transforming the organisation broadly. This is a major milestone for us and it strengthens our steadfastness to continue our pursuit to proactively drive and invest in initiatives that contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s socio-economic transformation, focusing on the development of enterprises and suppliers as well as skills development”.
Well done UD Trucks!
