Secunda’s Cindy loves her job at taxi association

Cindy Labuschagne (37), a financial administrator for the Vukanini Taxi Association (Vukta) said people get “funny” when she tells them she is the taxi industry employee.

She was recruited by the association’s chairperson 10 years ago while she was working for a retail business in eMbalenhle.

“The chairman told me to come work for the association, but it was not an easy decision to make based on other people’s opinion about the industry.

“After thinking it through, I decided to take the chance and I then spoke with my family about my decision.

“My husband was skeptical at first, but after a while excepted that I decided to join the industry,” said Labuschagne.

“I learned not to believe everything that people say about the industry.

“When I was first introduced members by the chairman, I was warmly welcomed.

“Now I am one of them, they are always there for me in good or bad times of my life,” said Labuschagne.

She has learnt many things since joining the association and said the taxi industry is like any other business.

Labuschagne said people label taxi drivers as reckless drivers, that is not always the case.

“I have never been as happy at a work than in this association.

“I enjoy my job because of the support that I get from the chairman and all taxi operators.”

Labuschagne initially feared discrimination because she is a white woman in an industry dominated by men.

“My fears were unfounded, it never went that way,” said Labuschagne.

Hear dream is to one day become a taxi operator and owner.