Page 3 - Maritime Book 1

FOREWORD
PORTIA DERBY
TRANSNET GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE
As we look back on 20 years of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) and the contribution towards South Africa’s social and economic milieu, it is with great pride that we introduce this book.
This a collection of real-life stories from extraordinary people who have transcended their circumstances to serve our country. These ordinary South Africans have shown us the ability to look beyond our immediate surroundings and re-imagine a better South Africa for all.
In an ever-changing global landscape that has been disrupted by environmental factors, economic volatility and a pandemic that has changed the way we think about working safely – the institutional knowledge gained over the years by these women and men is invaluable.
The women and men in this book are people who have worked hard to ensure that they make a meaningful contribution to the South African economy and their communities. Some started
their journeys as taxi drivers, cadets or shorehands, and have worked tirelessly, often against the tide, to change perceptions in an industry that was sometimes reluctant to change.
Others fought against gender stereotypes and undertook maritime journeys even when they were the rst women to work aboard ships, often alone with otherwise entirely male crews. They have helped rede ne the industry and in so doing, have allowed TNPA to lead the global shift towards gender equity in the maritime industry. Mostly though, in all corners of the country, young people, both male and female, now know that they too can conquer the seas.
These men and women opened the door for others and subsequent generations who have since joined our ranks. We salute them for the pioneering role that they have played in driving change in South Africa’s maritime space.
As we look to the future, we place our trust in their capacity as change agents, to herald a new digital future for African shipping and logistics. These ordinary extraordinary South Africans have broadened our worlds and shown us new horizons. For this we salute them.
This book is a celebration of their triumphs, unwavering commitment and determination to navigate through uncharted waters. We hope that it also serves as a reminder of what can be achieved by those who are willing to break boundaries.