Berry Astrapak making dreams come true

Thoko was thrilled to receive the opportunity to study in 2017, and she chose to obtain a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Supply Chain Management after Astrapak offered her a bursary.

Berry Astrapak’s vision to become a world-class manufacturer of plastic packaging products leans on our ability to uphold sustainable practices and to maintain an inclusive environment in which our employees can thrive.

Without our dynamic teams and capable workforce, our growth and achievements in the industry would not be possible. At Berry Astrapak, we believe in empowering our people, developing their potential and investing in them to see them flourish.

One such employee, Thoko Dlamini, joined the Astrapak family in 2016 as a general worker and has thrived among a group of diverse people. Eager to learn new skills, Thoko was thrilled to receive the opportunity to study in 2017, and she chose to obtain a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Supply Chain Management after Astrapak offered her a bursary.

“It was a huge blessing to me because I never thought I would be able to study any degree in my life and Astrapak made that happen,” Thoko said.

Although the journey was not always smooth sailing, Thoko gave her all to juggle work, family life and her schooling. She expressed that without the support of her family and colleagues, she doubted that she would’ve been able to get this far.

“Plenty of people were part of my journey and I will always appreciate them in my life. I can’t name them all, but people like Futhi Buthelezi, Michelle Bell and Lungi Sibiya played a huge role and still continue to support me.”

One of the biggest obstacles that Thoko faced was self-studying the modules. She felt the pressure of needing to grasp the concepts and sought to find study groups to aid her learning.

“Supply chain is an interesting module as it integrates into most departments. I’m the kind of person who gains understanding through explanation, so the theory was challenging at times, but I’m hoping to be able to apply it practically,” explained Thoko.

As an intern in the Supply Chain Management department, Thoko is currently undertaking warehouse training and looks forward to gaining more experience. If she is successful in completing her BCom in June 2021, it will be no small feat since she will be the first to obtain a degree in her family.

“This makes me want to push harder until I see the end of my studies. Although I had some obstacles, I didn’t want to entertain them and give up because I have a purpose to represent my family. I’m so happy that my dream to study has finally come true.”

We at Berry Astrapak admire her commitment and drive to see her schooling through. Well done for all your hard work, Thoko!