Isuzu

GQEBERHA – ISUZU Motors South Africa, as the title sponsor of IRONMAN South Africa, takes immense pride in championing a diverse and accomplished assembly of athletes and individuals participating in the forthcoming IRONMAN event on 19 November.

The Nelson Mandela Bay leg of the competition kicks off a rigorous series of IRONMAN challenges to be held in Durban and Mossel Bay during the year.

Ziphindiwe Ngcobo, Department Executive: Marketing at ISUZU, conveyed her excitement about the brand’s participation in the 2024 IRONMAN African Championships: “Having maintained this partnership for the past 16 years, we are thrilled to be part of this exciting event, which is on our home turf. Both the IRONMAN and ISUZU brands embody the spirit of being BOLD BEYOND HUMAN, recognising the resilience of everyday individuals who courageously push their limits to tackle such a significant physical and mental challenge.”

1% Challenge

At this year’s African Championships, ISUZU and the ISUZU Foundation are calling all of Mzansi to help raise R15,800 through its 1% Challenge.

Anyone can participate by taking on the challenge either at home, in the gym, or online by completing a 38-meter swim, a 1.8-kilometer static Watt bike ride, followed by a 422-meter treadmill run.

To participate, follow ISUZU Motors South Africa on its social media pages, record your participation in the 1% Challenge, post it on social media using the following hashtags to help give back:

#ISUZUIM703NelsonMandelaBay and
#BoldBeyondHuman
#GoXTRA

Spectators at the event can also enter and do their bit for the 1% Challenge at the event by visiting Boardwalk Mall between 18-20 April.

ISUZU is calling on a total of 1, 580 participants who will complete the challenge either at the activation stand, at the gym or at home.

“As a brand dedicated to the communities we serve, ISUZU is committed to giving back and making a difference. The IRONMAN African Championships competition serves as an excellent platform to engage with the local community and inspire individuals to embrace a healthier and more active lifestyle,” says Ngcobo.

Monies raised through the ISUZU 1% Challenge will benefit IRONMAN 4 The Kidz charity, a registered non-profit organisation helping over 20 children’s charities throughout South Africa.

Bold Humans

Among its sponsored participants are a mixture of ISUZU dealers, loyal customers, and esteemed athletes, including South Africa’s renowned triathlon and multisport athletes club, ATC Multisport, led by Head Coach Steve Atwell.

Steve Atwell is a certified Level 2 Triathlon coach accredited by TSA and ASA. He is the Chairman of ATC Multisport, South Africa’s largest multisport club known for nurturing beginners and elite athletes alike. He founded ‘Embark Tri’ in 2010 to mentor novice athletes.

“Our diverse sponsorship lineup exemplifies ISUZU’s commitment to supporting both professional athletes and local heroes as they take on the ultimate test of endurance. We believe that these participants embody the enduring spirit of ISUZU and the indomitable strength it represents,” ends Ngcobo.

Gqeberha, 09 April 2024 – ISUZU Motors South Africa (ISUZU) is proud to announce the renewal of the partnership with Nelson Mandela University’s Govan Mbeki Mathematics Development Centre (GMMDC) aimed at assisting disadvantaged schools in improving their Mathematics and Physical Science results. The new partnership is set to run from 2024 to 2026.

The official launch of this partnership took place on Thursday April 4, 2024, in Gqeberha, reaffirming ISUZU’s commitment to enhancing education in South Africa.

ISUZU has joined hands with GMMDC to provide innovative teaching and learning tools to three Gqeberha schools: KwaZakhele, Newell, and Sophakama High Schools. Through this collaboration, the programme aims to empower Mathematics and Physical Sciences teachers with the latest tools and mobile learning support platforms, including the GammaTutor mobile teaching device and curriculum aligned MobiTutorZA software. These customized resources enable effective teaching and learning at schools without requiring an internet connection.

Lebogang Makoloi, ISUZU’s Corporate and Public Affairs Executive, emphasises the importance of integrating technology into teaching, recognising it as the future of learning. “Mathematics and Physical Sciences are critical subjects for graduates seeking employment in the automotive industry, and we are proud to partner with GMMDC on this project.”

The Mathematics Incubation and Techno-Blended Support (MITS) Programme, designed to bolster STEM skills development in project schools, encompasses three key components. Firstly, an intensive Mathematics and Coding incubation and skills development programme will target selected matric learners across three project schools. Led by school-based Mathematics teachers, this nine-month initiative will include twenty 90-minute Technology-assisted After-school Programme Support (TAPS) sessions annually, aligned with the school curriculum delivery sequence.

The second component will provide an opportunity to Mathematics Teachers to participate in a professional development programme accredited by the South African Council for Educators with the last component being a whole school STEM development programme for all grades which will be provided each year in the form of an online Mathematics and Physical Sciences learning platform.

“We are deliberate in the role we play in the education space. We pay particular attention to assisting schools and learners who come from disadvantaged communities. The partnership with GMMDC provides us with an opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of learners, with the future in mind”, explains Makoloi.

Each session of the TAPS programme, organised as Topic Learning Cycles, aims to facilitate self-directed learning, and will be preceded by a 30-minute Coding activity conducted by trained facilitators from the LEVA Foundation, a project partner to GMMDC. Mathematics facilitators will receive Gamma Tutor teaching resources and data projectors to enhance classroom presentations and teaching assistance during TAPS sessions.

The self-directed learning journey in Mathematics and Physical Sciences for learners across all three project schools will also receive robust support from the GMMDC’s cutting-edge online platform, MobiTutorZA.

Professor Werner Olivier, Director at the Nelson Mandela Govan Mbeki Mathematics Development Centre says, “The effortless incorporation of the latest technology into current support initiatives for Mathematics and Physical Sciences educators is worth noting. This programme aligns with the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) for Mathematics Grades 8-12 and Physical Sciences Grades 10-12. Furthermore, innovative digital applications functions as a supplementary after-hours support system, enriching students’ learning experiences.”

Secondly, Mathematics teachers from project schools will participate in the GMMDC’s accredited Professional Skills Development programme that is offered in the Metro. The third leg of the MITS programme will see after-school STEAM activity workshops being offered at schools to promote critical thinking and real-life problem-solving skills among learners.

As part of this partnership, 45 grade 12 learners will receive tablets and material resource for use in GMMDC’s Mathematics, Physical Science and Coding engagement projects, furthering the commitment to improve education outcomes in South Africa. In addition, each of the schools have received a projector, router and monthly data.

“It is the mission of GMMDC to develop and implement innovative techno-blended models to enhance the quality of teaching and learning in Mathematics and Physical Sciences in secondary schools and to improve critical skills for sustainable economic development,” adds Prof. Olivier.

This sponsorship emphasises ISUZU’s dedication to supporting education and empowering future generations.

ISUZU Foundation, a collaborative initiative between ISUZU Motors South Africa and its Dealer Network, has expanded its impact into neighbouring Namibia by handing over 100 much-needed school desks and chairs to Elias Amxab Combined School, situated in Sesfontein settlement, Epupa Circuit in the Kunene Region.

The school accommodates 820 learners from Grade 0 to Grade 11 and has 28 staff members. Majority of the learners come from previously marginalised and disadvantaged backgrounds in areas such as Ovahima, San and Ovaherero.

In addition to the 100 school desks and chairs, the ISUZU Foundation through Auas Motors in the area, has responded to the request for assistance by providing 50 double bunk beds and mattresses for the school hostel.

“Part of our commitment as the ISUZU Foundation is to make a positive impact in the communities within which we operate. Many of our efforts are largely focused on education and enabling a conducive learning and teaching environment. We are extremely excited to hand over these assets to Elias Amxab Combined School and trust this will go a long way in easing the strain experienced by learners and educators,” says Marvan van Zyl, ISUZU Foundation Chairperson.

The school, which was established in 1955, faces several challenges ranging from a shortage of classrooms, furniture, and proper assets for its hostel facilities.

“The donation from the ISUZU Foundation provides us with an ideal opportunity to build the next generation of leaders by providing them with the necessary equipment that will enable them to learn lifelong skills. We are extremely grateful for the desks, chairs and beds they have handed over to our school, and I am confident this will go a long way in inspiring our learners and staff as we continue to pursue better academic outcomes”, says Shemunyenge Hamukwaya, Principal at Elias Amxab Combined School.

The ISUZU Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to identify sustainable opportunities to uplift the communities within which it operates.

The ISUZU Foundation, a collaborative initiative between ISUZU Motors South Africa and its Dealer Network, has expanded its philanthropic efforts to rejuvenate Soutpansberg Primary School, located in Makhado (Louis Trichardt) within the Limpopo province.

In response to the deteriorating conditions of the aging school building, the ISUZU Foundation undertook a comprehensive reconstruction project, addressing critical areas in need of restoration. The recently completed renovations encompass the installation of modernised toilets, repainting of walls and roofs, tiling, door fittings, and the addition of new gutters. The official handover of these revitalised facilities took place on Wednesday, 31 January 2024.

“ISUZU Foundation’s commitment lies in making a positive impact within the communities in which we operate. The refurbishment of key facilities at Soutpansberg Primary School aligns with our broader initiatives aimed at contributing sustainable solutions to enhance the learning and working environment for both learners and educators,” stated Marcia Mayaba, ISUZU’s Department Executive for Dealer and Business Development.

This initiative is part of ISUZU’s overarching Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy, focusing on key pillars such as education, youth empowerment, community development, and environmental impact.

Expressing enthusiasm about the transformation, Mpho Kwebane, ISUZU’s Parts Manager at NTT ISUZU in Makhado, highlighted the belief that a well-maintained and visually appealing school can positively influence the educational experience for learners and educators, potentially leading to improved outcomes. Additionally, it is anticipated that the refurbishments will instil a sense of pride within the community and elevate hygiene standards within the school premises.

The ISUZU Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to identifying sustainable opportunities that ensure the learning and teaching environment at Soutpansberg Primary School remains conducive for years to come.

ISUZU Trucks proudly celebrates its remarkable 11-year reign as the number one brand in South Africa’s cab-over-chassis’ medium and heavy commercial vehicle (MCV and HCV) segments. Despite market challenges, ISUZU Trucks continues to dominate, reinforcing its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

Medium commercial vehicle segment: In 2023, ISUZU Trucks maintained a significant presence in the Medium Commercial Vehicle (MCV) segment. The sales results showcase the brand’s resilience and market leadership:

• Total volume for 2023: 1,632 units, reflecting a 5.1% decline from 2022’s 1,720 units.
• Market share for 2023: 30.8%, indicating a 1.4% decrease from 2022’s 32.2%.
• Consistent leadership: ISUZU Trucks secured the top volume-selling cab-over-chassis (excluding van and bus) position for all 12 months, with March standing out as the best sales month, achieving a remarkable 198 units.

Heavy commercial vehicle segment: ISUZU Trucks’ performance in the Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) segment highlights its adaptability and strength in a dynamic market:

• Total volume for 2023: 1,160 units, compared to 2022’s 1,223 units.
• Market share for 2023: 21.2%, reflecting a notable 0.7% increase from 2022’s 20.5%.
• Despite a decrease in volume within the segment, ISUZU Trucks has successfully increased its overall market share.

Achieving top spot: ISUZU Trucks proudly claims the title of the #1 top-selling cab-over-chassis brand in both the MCV and HCV segments in South Africa. The success is further exemplified by the NPR 400 and FTR 850 models, which stood out as the top volume-selling model derivatives, showcasing the brand’s ability to meet diverse market demands.

“We are immensely proud of this achievement and grateful for the support of our valued customers, dealerships, and partners who have played a crucial role in our continued success”, said Craig Uren, Senior Vice President Revenue Generations (SACU) at ISUZU Motors South Africa. He furthermore expressed gratitude for the continued support of customers, dealerships, and partners, stating, “These results reinforce our dedication to providing high-quality, innovative solutions. ISUZU Trucks remains committed to setting industry standards and driving the future of commercial transportation.”

As ISUZU Trucks embarks on another year, the brand is poised to build on its legacy of excellence, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions.

Gqeberha – ISUZU Motors South Africa (ISUZU) is proud to be recognised as a 2024 Top Employer in South Africa by the internationally recognised Top Employers Institute for the second year in a row.

The Top Employers Institute is a global authority on recognising people practices. It certifies organisations based on the participation, validation, and audit of the Human Resources Best Practices Survey.

The certification as Top Employer 2024 recognises ISUZU’s efforts in promoting the best people practices and creating an inclusive world of work for all its employees.

“As a people-centred organisation, we take pride in championing a work environment that ensures employees excel in what they do and are able to grow within the business. We recognise the success of our business is largely dependent on how we treat our people. For this reason, our people strategy, which is informed by our business strategy, encourages us to drive a high-performance culture and to respond to the evolving needs of our workforce which include championing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) initiatives” says ISUZU Senior Vice President Human Capital and Corporate Affairs, Mongezi Hermans.

The Top Employer Survey is independently audited and covers six Human Resources domains which focus on key themes which include, Steering, Shaping, Attracting, Developing, Engaging, and Uniting employees. The work environment, learning, diversity and inclusion, and employee well-being also form part of the many topics evaluated within these themes.

“We are extremely proud to be recognised as a Top Employer for the second year running. In 2023, we continued to be deliberate in how we bring talent into the organisation and on how we accelerate their development. We aim to continue to largely focus on nurturing the youth as the future workforce while increasing our efforts to transform our organisation beyond compliance,” Hermans adds.

Top Employers Institute CEO David Plink says: “Exceptional times bring out the best in people and organisations. And we have witnessed this in our Top Employers Certification Programme this year: exceptional performance from the certified Top Employers 2024. These employers have always shown that they care for the development and well-being of their people. By doing so, they collectively enrich the world of work. We are proud to announce and celebrate this year’s group of leading people-oriented employers: the Top Employers 2024.”

The programme has certified and recognised over 2 300 Top Employers in 121 countries/regions across five continents.

Following the conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, which takes place annually between 25 November and 10 December, ISUZU Motors South Africa is utilising its resources and making strides to lend a helping hand to those most vulnerable – women and children.

“At ISUZU, we recognise gender-based violence and violence against children to be a societal crisis. It is our duty as a responsible corporate citizen to do what we can in lending a hand to support those most affected and to drive awareness amongst our employees in the hope that they support changing the narrative in the communities where they live,” says ISUZU Department Executive for Corporate and Public Affairs, Lebogang Makoloi

The latest crime statistics released by the South African Police Services indicate that between January to March 2023, there was a 29% rise in attempted murders against children compared to the same three-month period last year. In his outrage to the level of violence against children in the latest crime statistics, UNICEF South Africa Deputy Representative, Muriel Mafico said violent deaths of 245 children and the physical and emotional impact of violence on a further 2,291 children are tragic reminders of the seriousness of this issue. The statistics also reveal a shocking rise in violence against women, with 969 murders and 1,485 attempted murders recorded over this period.

These are horrific numbers by any standard and it should raise significant concern about the war that is continuously being waged against women and children in South Africa.

ISUZU is supporting two homes, Yokhuselo Haven in Gqeberha and Bethany Home for Abused Women and Children in Johannesburg. These homes are safe havens which provide protection and counselling for abused women and children. They also offer skills training in sewing, computer literacy and baking which will assist the women in finding a job to earn an income to support their families. The latter shelter looks after abused women aged 20 to 40 years and their children.

Their needs are great as the abused women often arrive with just the clothes on their back and ISUZU has collected items such as, toiletries, clothing, shoes, bedding, colouring books, and nappies for children. The two homes will also share an amount of R100 000 donated by ISUZU to assist them in their operations.

“Part of ISUZU’s efforts is also to drive education and awareness with our workforce about the company’s zero tolerance towards all forms of abuse, workplace violence and bullying to ensure we create a safe work environment for all.”

“It is important for our employees to understand what abuse entails, which is a pattern of controlling behaviour of one person over another and encompasses financial, physical, sexual, psychological and verbal abuse. They are encouraged to report this behaviour via the correct channels and hotlines, “says Makoloi.

Gqeberha – As the festive season approaches, ISUZU Motors South Africa has partnered with Love Story and Imvelo Yethu (Non-Profit Organisations), to fill up and handover 400 Buckets of Blessings to disadvantaged communities in Gqeberha and Johannesburg.

The Buckets of Blessings initiative began back in 2016 and is aimed at ensuring those who are in desperate need are at least able to enjoy their festive season.

“Living up to our ethos of caring and giving back to communities, we have rolled up our sleeves to pack and deliver 400 Buckets of Blessings to communities in kwaDwesi and Joe Slovo in Gqeberha as well as in Tembisa, Johannesburg. As a responsible corporate citizen and key contributor to communities within which we operate, ISUZU Motors South Africa is extremely honoured to be able to bring a smile to those in need. Hunger is one of the biggest societal challenges faced by our disadvantaged communities. These Buckets of Blessings bring hope and some relief to the destitute in these communities during the festive season”, says ISUZU Corporate and Public Affairs Department Executive, Lebogang Makoloi.

In line with the theme ‘ISUZU Cares, I care Too’, the 400 Buckets of Blessings filled with grocery essentials were packed and delivered by ISUZU employees to communities in kwaDwesi and Joe Slovo (Gqeberha) and in Tembisa (Johannesburg).

The Buckets of Blessings are each filled with 10 kg rice, 10kg mealie meal, 10kg flour, 2kg sugar, 2 litre cooking oil, 3 x baked beans, 3 x soup packets, 3 x yeast, 2 kg potatoes and 3 kg carrots. The grocery items were carefully chosen to provide nutritional value and to last a family of four, for approximately a month. The bulk groceries were procured by ISUZU from Feed the Nation, who also came on board by donating two additional vegetable items into each bucket. The ISUZU team packed and delivered the Buckets of Blessings as part of the employee volunteerism programme and giving their time to those in need.

ISUZU has been a long-term corporate partner to the Buckets of Blessings initiative and prides itself in playing a key role in initiatives that seek to benefit local communities.

As we conclude disability rights awareness month, ISUZU Motors South Africa, whose workforce consists of 5% of people who are differently abled, actively strives for diverse representation in its workplace where everyone feels that they belong.

“As an internationally recognised Top Employer spearheading transformation in the automotive industry, ISUZU Motors South Africa is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment to ensure all employees feel a sense of belonging and are treated with respect and dignity”, says ISUZU’s Senior Vice President, Human Capital, and Corporate Affairs, Mongezi Hermans.

ISUZU acknowledges that anyone’s ability status may change at any time and encourages everyone not to be afraid to declare their differently abled status. Two incredibly resilient differently abled employees of ISUZU share their story:

Craig Fouche

Craig’s employment with ISUZU started in 1996 during the Delta Motor Corporation days in the drawing office as a 3D specialist working on Unigraphics. He then moved into Engineering and thereafter planning programme management. He has been part of the planning and programme management team at ISUZU for the past 23 years and is a second-generation employee following in his father’s footsteps who also worked for Delta and GM.

“I have what is often termed or called a ‘hidden disability’. Externally I appear normal, but I underwent kidney failure which necessitated a kidney transplant, graciously donated by my wife, who thankfully was a compatible match.

The donor list is extremely long, and I urge everyone to consider being an organ donor –you save about 25 lives being an organ donor,” says Fouche.

He requires lifelong specialised medication to prevent rejection of the transplanted organ. Consequently, he must exercise extreme caution regarding outside contact to minimise infection risks. This was especially challenging during COVID.

“At work and when going to retail stores, I must wear a N95 mask which is tricky as sometimes people look at me strangely.”

“ISUZU has been extremely accommodating of my and others’ special needs and ensures adequate facilities are available to us to be able to continue to operate in the normal course of business,” adds Fouche.

During COVID remote work became the norm and the company permitted Craig to continue working from home so that he doesn’t have to wear a mask all the time. His medication requires frequent hydration which is impeded when he is using a mask.

ISUZU has custom-built a protected screen for Craig to use when he is in the office. Tailored to his height it incorporates COVID shields offering him added protection while seated at his desk.

“The company is well-versed in my circumstances and my specific requirements related to my disability. My message to the wider world is not to overlook people with disabilities even if those whose disabilities are not immediately evident. We want a normal life just like anyone else,” he concludes.

Daniel Geswindt

Daniel lives with a neurological disorder which requires him to use a wheelchair. Several years ago, he began experiencing numbness in his leg leading to an operation that unveiled a spinal cord tumour rendering him unable to walk. Every day he diligently works towards strengthening his body, aspiring to regain the ability to sit up straight and walk. Daniel, a married man, and father of four wonderful children, received unwavering support from his family.

Like Craig, Daniel commenced his ISUZU journey as a welder during the Delta Motors Corporation days in 1995. He then moved to the salvage material handling as a Scheduled Artisan for nine years before transitioning into Quality and Production process engineering currently known as Manufacturing Technical Support.

“I pride myself on being hardworking, self-motivated, self-assured, friendly and possess excellent communication skills. I thrive on acquiring new skills and readily embrace any new challenge. Despite my disability I am steadfastly loyal, honest and compete with other engineers through sheer dedication.

What motivates me the most are my children who tell me ‘Daddy don’t worry, we are here and will support you’.”

“Throughout my journey, ISUZU has been an incredible support system. My manager personally visited me when I was in hospital and offered reassurance that I needn’t worry as ISUZU has my back. The office facilities have been adapted to suit my requirements. I am 55 years and I feel lucky”.

“My message to the world is to never lose hope – dare to dream big even if you feel disappointed. Try your best no matter what,” says Geswindt.

ISUZU is committed to ensuring that everyone contributes towards creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable environment where all people can have a sense of belonging.

Gqeberha – ISUZU Motors South Africa is proud to announce the handover of three new ISUZU D-MAX bakkies to humanitarian aid organisation Gift of the Givers, renewing its commitment to amplify efforts to bring critical disaster relief to affected areas, often in hard-to-reach and remote locations across South Africa.

The handover is a continuation of a partnership started in 2019 where a total of three ISUZU D-MAX bakkies and three ISUZU trucks. The partnership has since seen these vehicles help Gift of the Givers with much needed logistical support in carrying out its humanitarian work and disaster relief efforts across the country, often navigating difficult terrain to reach those communities facing adversity.

The ISUZU D-MAX bakkies are built for solid performance, fuel efficiency and reliability which will continue to allow the Gift of the Givers teams to service areas that are difficult to reach.

In 2019, ISUZU handed over three water tankers, still used today, (two 7500 litres and one 5000 litres) in efforts to provide water to drought-stricken areas such as Makhanda, Graaff Reinet, Somerset East, Alice and Fort Beaufort, transporting an average of 250 000 litres of water per month.

“At ISUZU Motors South Africa we care about the communities within which we operate. As a responsible corporate citizen, we are committed to taking action and boldly doing more to make a positive impact in uplifting vulnerable communities. Our collaboration with Gift of the Givers reflects the core team values of our organisation and has significantly expanded our ability to rapidly respond to our communities when they need it most. We pride ourselves in being a company that builds reliable vehicles that bring hope to our communities,” says ISUZU Motors South Africa, Senior Vice President: Human Capital and Corporate Affairs, Mongezi Hermans.

The partnership has provided Gift of the Givers with fundamental support needed to further extend its disaster relief efforts to provinces that have suffered from devastating floods and drought which include Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal.

“As we receive these three ISUZU D-MAX bakkies today, we are extremely motivated to do more. These vehicles are lifelines which serve as a critical logistic tool, especially with mobilising our teams to reach communities situated in challenging terrains. Transport forms a big part of what we do as we are often the first point of contact to provide disaster relief to those in need, making our partnership with ISUZU invaluable.”, says Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, Founder: Gift of the Givers.

ISUZU had previously made available three D-MAX bakkies and three trucks, for Gift of the Givers to support communities in distress