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, a Key Account Consultant | Imports and Exports - Ocean at C. Steinweg Bridge, is South Africa’s Award Winner 2026 in the prestigious FIATA YLP 2026.  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 Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF) has placed the outstanding achievement of Sinazo Nogwebela at the centre of its call for a unified industry commitment to developing the next generation of freight and logistics leaders. SAAFF’s Chief Executive Officer Dr Juanita Maree announced that; “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, the sponsorship represents a practical investment in her continued development and will enable her to deepen her expertise and leadership capacity within the profession.”

Sinazo holds an internationally recognised FIATA Diploma in Freight Forwarding, attained through GMLS. Her award-winning dissertation, titled:  “A Strategic Analysis of International Trade Corridors:  Pig Iron Export and Fertiliser Imports as Drivers of National, Industrial and Food Security” examines the strategic role of freight forwarding in facilitating international trade and strengthening economic resilience.

The dissertation shows how well-managed trade corridors contribute to industrial competitiveness, regional economic integration and national food security. Dr Maree comments to say “Sinazo’s work highlights the strategic role of freight forwarders in connecting markets, navigating complex regulatory environments and building supply chains capable of withstanding disruption.

The submission stood out for moving beyond technical proficiency to demonstrate 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, integrated and well-coordinated approach through which employers, professional bodies, education providers and experienced practitioners collectively develop a strong pipeline of globally capable leaders.

Sinazo’s performance demonstrates the calibre of young talent already present in our industry. The responsibility rests with the industry to create platforms, mentorship, professional education and career opportunities through which this talent can advance and lead, SAAFF said.

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, enabling the timely, predictable flow of cargo across borders, Together, these capabilities are fundamental to building a logistics system that can support economic growth and compete 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, anchoring professional development and preparing young practitioners to lead in an increasingly complex and technology-driven freight and logistics environment.