Breaking Ground - Kubashni Nagapah

From the moment I arrived at the Siyasiza Trucking depot, she was directing staff, fielding calls and keeping a close eye on the steady stream of trucks coming and going. In an industry traditionally dominated by men, she has earned her place through determination, resilience and an unwavering work ethic. “You’ve got to be strong in this business,” she says. She has also had to contend with contractors attempting to delay payments, while ensuring she knows enough about vehicle maintenance and spare parts to avoid being hoodwinked.

Nine years ago, Kubashni started Siyasiza Trucking with a single truck. Today, the company is recognised by its trademark yellow fleet, which has grown to five trucks, two bobcats, a TLB and a six-metre trailer. The business employs around 15 people, including drivers, loaders, bobcat and TLB operators, mechanics and administrative staff.

Supplying river sand and build/plast as well as providing excavation, rubble removal and garden refuse services, Siyasiza Trucking works with contractors on some of the North Coast’s largest residential estate developments.

Building the business has not come without challenges. The trucking industry is capital-intensive, with breakdowns, burst tyres, unexpected repairs and late nights, ensuring vehicles are back on the road before the next day’s deliveries, forming part of daily life. 

Rather than allowing challenges to define her, Kubashni has built her reputation on exceptional customer service, reliability and a willingness to go the extra mile for her clients. The result is a loyal customer base that continues to grow despite fierce competition.

Fluent in isiZulu, she says being able to communicate with staff and clients in their home language has been invaluable, particularly in an industry where English is not everyone’s first language.

For Kubashni, the greatest reward lies not only in growing a successful business, but in showing other women that there is no industry beyond their reach. Every truck that leaves her yard is another reminder that perseverance, knowledge and hard work can carry anyone to success.