Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone CEO, Dr Bheka Zulu, was professionally recognised at the Transport Evolution Africa Awards on 21 September 2023, winning in the category “Inclusive Leadership”.
The three-day exhibition, focusing on the theme “Boosting transport infrastructure and logistic operational levers as strategic enablers for competitive trade in Africa”, has been taking place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC Complex in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, from 20 -22 September 2023.
The annual gathering, which in now in its 11th year, allows decision-makers, businesses and organisations involved in the transport sector to access all categories within the value chain; from transport infrastructure, to logistics, to the access and manufacture of components, to cargo packaging and warehousing, to technology and innovation, to manufacturing.
One of the key events of Transport Evolution Africa is the annual awards in recognition of “the achievements of transport trailblazers in making an impact locally, nationally and continentally”.
The organisers note that “the Transport Evolution Africa Awards serves as a powerful platform to recognise, reward and celebrate those who have not only transformed the industry but have also left an indelible mark in driving enterprise development, sustainability, and inclusivity”.
Dr Zulu was recognised for his inclusive leadership.
In a 2020 article titled “The Key to Inclusive Leadership” published in the Harvard Business Review, authors Juliet Bourke and Andrea Titus noted that “inclusive leadership is emerging as a unique and critical capability helping organisations adapt to diverse customers, markets, ideas and talent”.
They note that inclusive leaders exhibit six signature traits:
- They make diversity and inclusion a personal priority.
- They are humble and create space for others to contribute.
- They are self-aware and work hard to ensure a meritocracy.
- They are empathetic, hold an open mindset, and listen without judgment.
- They are attentive to others’ cultures.
- They empower others and focus on team cohesion.
Other awards announced at Transport Evolution Africa included: rising star; women mentor of the year; women excellence leadership; best equity, diversity and social inclusion programme; best port and terminal operator; and best rail operator.