Sandile Sitsholwana (33) has been named the Shoprite Group’s 2025 Driver of the Year, emerging as the top performer among 1 658 colleagues from South Africa and neighbouring countries in the retailer’s annual competition. 

Sitsholwana, who joined the Group in 2024, hails from Botshabelo in the Free State and is the first-ever winner from Bloemfontein in the competition’s 13-year history. The national final, held in Cape Town, brought together 13 finalists for a day of intense competition – combining rigorous practical assessments and a demanding written exam. 

Finalists are selected through regional rounds and are assessed on their theoretical knowledge of road rules, vehicle classification, and company policies, followed by practical yard and on-road tests, overseen by national safety authorities. 

“I started out as a taxi driver in 2013. I’ve always loved driving – the travelling, meeting new people, and experiencing our beautiful country through its road network. My advice to young drivers? Work hard, be punctual, stay calm and patient. A good attitude goes a long way behind the wheel. I’d like to thank Shoprite for giving us this great opportunity to test our skills and learn from each other,” he said shortly after his win.

– Sandile Sitsholwana (33), The Shoprite Group’s 2025 Driver of the Year