Katlego's journey to leadership in logistics

As a curious young girl raised in a small township just outside of Polokwane, Katlego would often travel with her mother to go shopping. During this time, she wondered why some stores had stock of products while others did not, a small observation that sparked a big question in her mind. Over time, she learned that logistics played a key role in ensuring products reach the right place at the right time. This realisation led to a growing interest and passion for the field of logistics. In 2007, Katlego completed a Diploma in Logistics at the University of Johannesburg and applied to join the learnership programme at DSV (then UTi).

Since joining the organisation, Katlego embraced every opportunity. Upon completion of the learnership programme, she took on an administrative role, where she quickly built strong competencies in operational activities and customer service. Within a year, she was promoted to a Team Lead position. While managing warehouse operations and guiding cross-functional teams for major customers, she uncovered a deep passion for delivering exceptional service. She often volunteered to learn more and better understand how operational excellence directly supports great customer experiences.

This passion paved the path to her becoming a Depot Manager, a role that sharpened her operational expertise and expanded her impact across multiple sites. Today, as a Site Manager, she oversees DSV's secure operations for two large customers, a role that she considers as both a challenge and a privilege, where her experience, curiosity, and leadership come together.

In 2024, Katlego was nominated for DSV's LeadHER programme in South Africa, which she describes as the "perfect timing." She had just stepped into her current role, and like many women in male-dominated industries, she faced self-doubt and questioned her ability to lead, especially large teams.

But LeadHER began shifting that perspective. The progamme served as both a mirror for reflection and a guide.

It reminded me of the values that matter most in leadership: authenticity, empathy, and courage. It challenged me to lead not just from strategy, but from the heart.

She also discovered that leadership is not about having the loudest voice, "it's about presence, empathy, courage, and empowering others to rise with you", she adds.

It's no surprise that a standout moment for Katlego was during the third module, 'Inspiration', when she experienced her "Aha!" moment. "It made me realise that the power I need already exists within me," she says. "Leadership is not about becoming someone else but becoming more of who you truly are."

Katlego also benefited from the DiSC assessment received during module two, which offered insights into her behavioural style as well as those around her to build stronger teams and lead effectively.

Since completing these modules, she has begun leading with renewed intentionally, creating environments where people feel seen, supported, and inspired to grow.

For Katlego, LeadHER is more than a programme, it's a space where women across divisions connect, share experiences, and build bonds that extend beyond work. "These relationships become a professional support system," she says. "They open doors for collaboration, confidence, and opportunity."

Her advice to other women is simple but powerful: "The world creates space for people who know where they are going. Raise your hand, lean in, and learn."

She goes on to add: "If nothing else speaks for you in the workspace, let your work ethic be your canvas. Show up with purpose, deliver with intent, lead with humility. That is how you leave your mark."

Her story is one of many unfolding at DSV. Through programmes like LeadHER, DSV is committed to developing and empowering the next generation of female leaders.

Learn more about DSV's LeadHER programme