The recent launch of the
South African Maritime
Professionals Association
(Sampa) delivers to the
freight industry what
many have talked about for
years – an association that
will actively promote the
profession among policy
makers and increase public
awareness.
Doctors, lawyers,
accountants and engineers
all have their own
professional bodies.
And now, thanks to the
drive and enthusiasm of
a number of like-minded
individuals spearheaded
by the organisation’s first
president, Mbongi Qwabe,
Sampa has been born.
It is a section 21 (nonprofit
) organisation that
will operate on a national
basis. It is open to anyone
involved in the “ocean
economy” and its main
objective is to attract and
retain professionalism in the
industry while helping to
mentor any newcomers.
“We also aim to engage
in dialogue and co-operate
with like-minded
organisations
within South
Africa and
outside our
borders,”
Qwabe told
FTW. There
has been an
overwhelming
response
from various
stakeholders
to the launch
of our organisation, he said.
“We plan to open a central
office that will disseminate
information about the
industry to members –
particularly in relation to
shipping qualifications.”
And in order to raise
awareness of the profession
as a career choice, Sampa
will take its marketing
message to students at high
school level.
“There are many
benefits for members who
will be kept up to date
on developments in the
profession
and will
have access
to formal
coaching or
mentoring
opportunities
with more
experienced
people.”
Based in
Richards
Bay, Qwabe
is an agency ship operator
employed by Phosfert
Marine, a subsidiary of
Foskor. He holds several
diplomas in maritime studies
and logistics and has been
involved in the maritime
industry since 2001.
For further information
email info@sampa.co.za
INSERT & CAPTION
We aim to co-operate
with like-minded
organisations.
– Mbongi Qwabe
