The 32-year-old driver from Homu village, Section 14 A, in Giyani, said he is over the moon with his win. “Although I wanted the first position, I’m happy being the first runner-up, as it still shows my capabilities as a driver. To be recognised in this manner, was humbling,” he said. He walked away with a trophy and a R5000 cheque. The competition in the male category was won by Tau Mahlare from the Apel Taxi Association in the Sekhukhune district.

Nyadzani Rambau from the Tshitale Taxi Association in the Vhembe district won the best female taxi driver of the year. Both the winners took home a trophy and a R10 000 cheque. Meanwhile, Mathebula told the Herald that he was introduced to the taxi industry in 2013 at the age of 23 when he was looking for a job. “I always wanted to follow a career in banking, but due to unemployment, I had to opt for being a driver.

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“However, I’m still studying through distance learning and I believe at the right time, I will still be able to pursue my dream,” he added. Mathebula further added that his attitude towards his work is to be positive at all times and to respect his passengers as they are the ones who are paying his salary. The Giyani Town Taxi Operators Association has applauded the young driver representing them and all of the taxi drivers in the Mopani district as well.

Hasani Hlungwani, the vice-chairperson of the association, also congratulated Mathebula on his win. “Mathebula is a hard-working and respectful driver. I’m not surprised he won the award,” he concluded.