SA's most dedicated courier braves Mdumbi River to deliver parcel

Source: Daily Maverick

South Africa needs everyday champions. We have seen the impact they have on hope and positivity, on businesses, demonstrating that the current doesn't always move in one direction.

In a tale of remarkable commitment, Sixolile Nqeketo, 29, a local DPD courier driver, crossed the Mdumbi River by personally renting a kayak, arriving drenched and breathless, to ensure a timely delivery for a Takealot customer.

Warren Hudson, Manager at Cool Bananas at Tshani Village, and the grateful recipient of the delivery, explained the initial predicament, "I received a call from the delivery man who was on the opposite side of the river, about 25 kilometres away. The gentleman asked if it were in order if he left our parcel for us at Freedom O' Clock Backpackers Retreat, to which we explained that we would prefer to take delivery of it here at our home as arranged with Takealot, as we were extremely busy and had no means of crossing the river to collect the parcel. We kindly asked for him to bring it to us, to which the gentleman agreed," I was baffled when he said, 'I'll see what I can do.' And indeed, he did more than anyone could expect."

Unwavering in his resolve, the DPD courier driver employed a local kayak service at his own expense, and proceeded to jog along the beach, making it to Mr. Hudson in astonishing time. "He arrived sweating and perspiring, yet with a smile. The speed of his delivery was unbelievable," said Hudson, who was waiting at Cool Bananas, a local venue that brings joy to the children of the village.

The touching story, which has since gone viral on social media, encapsulates the tenacity and heart of a man who is now affectionately referred to as 'the dedicated delivery man.' "It was so quick, I couldn't believe my eyes," Hudson continued, "This man who crossed local rivers and beaches might soon cross international borders, as he's been nominated for a competition that could see him travelling to Spain. Winning this would be a reward for good work and making people happy, from doing a delivery in the rural "Transkei" and ending up in Spain. Remarkably, he remains humble, seeking no acknowledgement for his deed."

Jason Lombard, CEO of DPD, lauded his employee's tenacity: " You won't read a tale of service better than this. When our DPD hero faced the seemingly impossible, he didn't just cross it -- he conquered it with heart! Sixolile has not only met but exceeded our highest expectations for dedication to service. His willingness to personally ensure the delivery, come rain or high water, makes us incredibly proud and grateful to have him on our team."

Echoing this sentiment, Solly Mathebula, Chief People Officer, expressed admiration for Sixolile's actions, "His unwavering commitment to our clients' needs and his agile response to challenging situations exemplifies the spirit of DPD. Congratulations to Sixolile for his exceptional dedication."

This inspiring incident highlights not only Nqeketo's individual commitment but also the collective ethos of DPD, where extraordinary measures are taken to meet customer needs.

Sixolile, who has been with the DPD Mthatha branch for some time, attributes his work ethic to the values instilled by his family. "I was raised to work hard, be dedicated, and love what I do, which is why I'm willing to go the extra mile to make sure that our deliveries are done on time and our customers are treated with respect," he says.

With this remarkable delivery, DPD reiterates its commitment to exceptional customer service, proving that no river is too wide in the pursuit of delivering satisfaction. DM/BM