The Rise of Mary Phadi and Basadi Logistics
The Rise of Mary Phadi and Basadi Logistics. In the heart of Emalahleni (Witbank), a city known for its coal mines and industrial activity, Mary Phadi embarked on a journey that would redefine the logistics landscape in South Africa. Phadi’s entrepreneurial spirit and determination led her to establish Basadi Logistics, a company that now stands as a testament to resilience and innovation in a male-dominated industry.
Humble Beginnings and a Vision for Change
Mary Phadi’s foray into entrepreneurship began with selling food to workers at Exxaro’s Belfast mine. Recognizing the potential in the logistics sector, she registered Basadi Logistics in 2006, starting with a single side tipper truck. Her initial operations focused on transporting coal, a commodity abundant in the Mpumalanga region. Over time, the company expanded its services to include the transportation of lime, manganese, and maize, catering to clients across South Africa and even extending into Zimbabwe.
Strategic Partnerships and Growth
A significant turning point for Basadi Logistics was its inclusion in Exxaro’s Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) programme. This initiative provided the company with financial support, training, and access to a broader client base. With this backing, Basadi Logistics grew its fleet to over 20 vehicles, including side tippers, flat decks, and tankers, and expanded its workforce to 53 employees. The company’s commitment to safety is evident in its clean record, with no reported fatalities.
Championing Women’s Empowerment in Logistics
Beyond her business achievements, Mary Phadi has been a vocal advocate for women’s participation in the logistics sector. As the president of the Truckers Association of South Africa (TASA), she has led initiatives to promote safety, fairness, and inclusivity in the industry. Under her leadership, TASA launched the first South African Freight Awards in 2022 and initiated safety awareness campaigns to address the rising fatalities involving trucks.
Phadi’s dedication to empowering women is further exemplified by her role as the national chairperson of the South African Network of Women in Transport. Through this platform, she has worked tirelessly to provide women with the technical skills and opportunities needed to thrive in the transport industry.
Overcoming Challenges and Setting New Standards
Navigating a male-dominated industry came with its set of challenges. Phadi faced skepticism and resistance, not just from clients but also from within her workforce. However, her unwavering commitment to excellence and her hands-on approach to leadership helped her overcome these obstacles. By setting high standards for safety, reliability, and professionalism, Basadi Logistics earned the trust of its clients and set a benchmark for others in the industry.
Actionable Insights for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
- Start Small, Think Big: Phadi’s journey underscores the importance of starting with available resources and scaling up through strategic planning and partnerships.
- Leverage Support Systems: Engaging with development programmes like Exxaro’s ESD can provide the necessary support to grow and sustain a business.
- Champion Inclusivity: Promoting diversity and inclusivity not only enriches the workplace but also opens up new perspectives and opportunities.
- Prioritize Safety and Professionalism: Maintaining high standards in operations builds trust with clients and sets a company apart in competitive industries.
- Advocate for Change: Using one’s platform to drive industry-wide improvements can lead to broader societal impacts and position a business as a leader in its field.
Mary Phadi’s story is a powerful reminder that with determination, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence, it’s possible to break barriers and drive meaningful change. Her journey with Basadi Logistics serves as an inspiration for entrepreneurs everywhere, especially those looking to make their mark in challenging industries.
