SAAFF Recognises FIATA Young Logistics Professional Award 2026

SAAFF Recognises FIATA Young Logistics Professional Award 2026 South Africa Winner and Champions a Unified Approach to Building the Industry Leadership of the Future

The International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) Young Logistics Professionals (YLP) South Africa 2026 winner Sinazo Nogwebela’s  submission is a highly commended research document,  demonstrating how professional excellence, integrated logistics and strong compliance can strengthen trade, industrial competitiveness and economic resilience.

Sinazo holds an internationally recognised FIATA Diploma in Freight Forwarding, attained through GMLS and is currently Key account consultant | Imports and Exports (Ocean) at C. Steinweg Bridge.  The award recognises emerging logistics professionals who demonstrate exceptional technical knowledge, analytical capability and the potential to contribute meaningfully to the future of the freight forwarding, logistics and supply chain profession. Sinazo distinguished herself through an outstanding submission that showcased both academic excellence and practical industry insight.

The dissertation, titled “A Strategic Analysis of International Trade Corridors: Pig Iron Exports and Fertiliser Imports as Drivers of National, Industrial and Food Security,” examines the strategic role of freight forwarding in enabling international trade and strengthening economic resilience. It also shows how well-managed trade corridors support industrial competitiveness, regional economic integration, and national food security.

The Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF) has highlighted Sinazo Nogwebela’s outstanding achievement as part of its call for a unified industry commitment to developing the next generation of freight and logistics leaders.

SAAFF Chief Executive Officer Dr Juanita Maree announced: “In recognition of Sinazo’s achievements, SAAFF and Global Maritime Legal Solutions (GMLS) will co-sponsor Sinazo’s FIATA Higher Diploma in Supply Chain Management. This sponsorship is a practical investment in her continued development and will help her deepen her expertise and leadership capacity within the profession.

Dr Maree added that Sinazo’s work highlights the strategic role of freight forwarders in connecting markets, navigating complex regulatory environments, and building supply chains that can withstand disruption. Her submission stood out by going beyond technical proficiency to show a broader understanding of logistics as an enabler of economic resilience and sustainable development.

SAAFF said South Africa’s freight and logistics industry needs a stronger, more integrated and coordinated approach, with employers, professional bodies, education providers, and experienced practitioners working together to develop a pipeline of globally capable leaders.

Sinazo’s performance reflects the strong young talent already emerging in the industry. SAAFF said the sector must now provide the platforms, mentorship, professional education, and career opportunities needed to help this talent grow and lead.

Dr Maree affirmed: “The fluid movement of trade depends on people who combine technical knowledge with sound judgement, ethical leadership, and an uncompromising commitment to compliance and efficiency. Compliance is the foundation of trust with authorities and regulators and enables the timely, predictable movement of cargo across borders. Together, these capabilities are fundamental to building a logistics system that supports economic growth and competes globally.”

As South Africa’s official freight forwarding industry representative to FIATA – SAAFF calls on industry to unite behind leadership development and promote participation in the FIATA YLP programme as a shared platform for recognising excellence, expanding professional development and preparing young practitioners to lead in an increasingly complex and technology-driven freight and logistics environment.