Freight Handling Learnership: From Learner to Logistics Professional 2025: best Journey of Sofia Makwala at SPAR North Rand Distribution Centre
The Inspiring Journey of Sofia Makwala
From Dream to Reality: How One Learnership Changed Sofia’s Life
Finding meaningful employment is a challenge for many young South Africans. Yet, success stories like Sofia Makwala’s show that the right opportunity, combined with hard work, can open the door to a brighter future.
Sofia joined the SPAR North Rand Distribution Centre’s Freight Handling Learnership in June 2024 and completed it in May 2025. Her remarkable journey began when she came across the opportunity on Learnseta.net, a trusted platform that lists verified learnerships and youth training programmes across South Africa.
“I was looking for real opportunities that could help me build a career,” Sofia recalls. “When I found the SPAR Freight Handling Learnership on Learnseta, I decided to apply immediately — and that decision changed my life.”
The Beginning: A Leap of Faith
Before her Freight Handling Learnership, Sofia, a young woman from Tembisa, was determined to enter the logistics field but lacked hands-on experience. The Learnseta listing gave her a clear picture of what the SPAR programme offered — structured training, real workplace experience, and a chance to earn while learning.
Her application stood out because of her positive attitude and motivation to grow. Within weeks, she received her acceptance letter and officially began her journey with one of South Africa’s most respected distribution centres.
Learning by Doing: Real Experience in Logistics
The SPAR North Rand Distribution Centre is a fast-paced logistics hub that plays a key role in ensuring SPAR stores across Gauteng receive their goods efficiently and on time.
During her 12-month Freight Handling Learnership, Sofia was exposed to multiple areas of warehouse and freight operations, including:
- Receiving and Dispatch: Managing and recording incoming and outgoing stock.
- Warehouse Operations: Learning how to handle, store, and move goods safely.
- Transportation Coordination: Assisting with vehicle routing and scheduling.
- Workplace Safety: Understanding and applying warehouse safety standards.
She also received structured training in communication, time management, and customer service — vital skills for a successful logistics career.
“The best part was learning something new every day,” Sofia says proudly. “The experience made me realise how important teamwork and attention to detail are in logistics.”
Overcoming Challenges with Determination
Like many learners, Sofia faced challenges during her journey. The early morning shifts, strict safety protocols, and fast-moving environment tested her patience and endurance.
“There were moments when I felt tired and unsure,” she admits. “But I reminded myself why I started — I wanted to build a better future.”
Her determination didn’t go unnoticed. Supervisors at SPAR praised her strong work ethic and willingness to learn. By the end of the Freight Handling Learnership, Sofia was recognised as one of the Top Performing Learners in her group.
A Bright Future After the Freight Handling Learnership
After completing the Freight Handling Learnership in May 2025, Sofia received her National Certificate in Freight Handling and was offered a permanent position as a Warehouse Assistant at SPAR North Rand Distribution Centre.
“I was so proud when they offered me a job,” she says. “The Freight Handling Learnership gave me the skills and confidence I needed to start my career. I’ll always be grateful to Learnseta for posting the opportunity — that’s where my journey began.”
Sofia now dreams of advancing into a supervisory role and continuing her studies in logistics and supply chain management to build a long-term career in the industry.
SPAR’s Commitment to Youth Empowerment
SPAR continues to support youth development across South Africa by offering learnerships and training opportunities in logistics, retail, and distribution. These programmes are designed to give young people like Sofia the real-world skills and experience they need to succeed.
Through such initiatives, SPAR not only helps reduce youth unemployment but also strengthens the logistics sector by preparing the next generation of professionals.
Lessons from Sofia’s Journey
Sofia’s inspiring story highlights three key lessons for South African youth:
- Act on opportunities quickly. You never know which one will open the right door.
- Be consistent. Small efforts each day lead to big achievements.
- Stay positive. Every challenge is a chance to grow stronger.
Final Words of Inspiration
When asked what message she has for other young job seekers, Sofia offers heartfelt advice:
“Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you — look for them and take action. I found mine on Learnseta.net, and it changed my life forever.”
Her journey with SPAR North Rand Distribution Centre is proof that with focus, resilience, and the right opportunity, any young person can achieve success.
Useful Links
- SPAR South Africa Careers
- Learnership Opportunities on Learnseta.net
- National Qualifications Framework Information
Author: Natasha Langeni
Published on Learnseta.net — Empowering South African Youth Through Skills and Opportunities
