UD Trucks Alrode’s Dealer Principal, Gabisile Fakude, Shares Her Inspiring Journey in Transport Industry
In an insightful interview with Focus on Transport and Logistics, Gabisile Fakude, Dealer Principal at McCarthy Commercial Vehicles Alrode, shares her journey from aspiring chartered accountant to influential leader in the transport industry. The article, titled “Grabbing the Future with Both Hands,” highlights Fakude’s unplanned but passionate entry into the world of commercial vehicles and her inspiring rise through the ranks.
Reflecting on her career, Fakude discusses how a chance meeting with mentor Liza-Marie Brooks sparked her interest in trucking. With encouragement from Brooks, Fakude joined UD Trucks Southern Africa’s learnership programme in 2011, marking the beginning of a new career path. She notes, “When I found myself in the industry, my blood turned to diesel… I fell in love!”
Fakude’s journey reflects her commitment to growth and resilience in the face of industry challenges. Her hard work and drive led to her selection as part of the Bidvest McCarthy Group’s succession planning programme, where she was groomed for leadership. Appointed as Dealer Principal of McCarthy Commercial Vehicles Alrode, Fakude embraced the challenges of her new role and dedicated herself to thriving as a woman leader in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
She openly acknowledges the support of mentors and family, particularly her husband, who has been a steadfast supporter of her career. Fakude is passionate about paving the way for more inclusivity and diversity within the commercial vehicle sector, stating, “Through inclusivity, we can change stigmas attached to the commercial vehicle space.”
Read more about Gabisile Fakude’s inspiring story and her vision for the future of women in the transport industry on Focus on Transport and Logistics: Grabbing the Future with Both Hands.