NEWS.CATEGORY: Equalities

TSSA Treasurer Mary Sithole nominated for International Transport Federation Women’s Representative

Mary Sithole, a black woman with natural hair smiling at the camera. She is seated at a circular table with a white tablecloth and pink and gold tablewear. Mary is wearing a white dress with lace trim, and a black jacket with a decorative black scarf, and pearl drop earrings.

The Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) is proud to announce the nomination of Mary Sithole, the union’s Treasurer, for the prestigious position of Women’s Representative on the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF).

This nomination comes during Black History Month, marking a historic moment as Sithole continues to break new ground for black women in the transport industry.

Mary Sithole, is the first black woman to serve as TSSA Treasurer and brings a wealth of experience to this nomination, reflecting her deep-rooted commitment to workers in the transport sector. In addition to her duties as Treasurer, she is an Equality Rep, having previously served as a Company Representative and Health and Safety Representative, and the Correspondence Secretary for E-Mix, TSSA’s Self-Organising Group dedicated to representing Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic members within the union.

She is a Safety Critical Train Dispatcher at the C2C train operating company.

TSSA General Secretary Maryam Eslamdoust said, “As the only nominee from Great Britain, Mary’s nomination is not only a significant achievement for her but also a proud moment for the Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA), who have long supported her work and dedication to workers’ rights.

“Mary Sithole has consistently championed gender equality and diversity in the transport sector. Her leadership, passion, and commitment to advocating for the rights of women in the industry make her an exceptional candidate for this role.

“TSSA is extremely proud of Mary and confident that her representation on the ITF will be a powerful voice for women transport workers across the globe. Her nomination is a testament to her hard work and the strides TSSA is making in promoting female leadership in traditionally male-dominated industries.

“We wish Mary the best as she continues to break new ground and inspire others.”

TSSA Treasurer Mary Sithole said, “I am deeply honoured to have been nominated for this prestigious role. Throughout my working life I have sought to advocate for workers’ rights, and for women and I hope to be able to continue that work with the ITF.

“I am fortunate to have been inspired by many great women in my life and particularly grateful for all the support TSSA has given me throughout my career.”

The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) is a democratic, affiliate-led federation recognised as the world’s leading transport authority. They work to improve workers' lives, connecting more than 700 affiliated trade unions from 150 countries to secure rights, equality and justice for workers' globally. They are the voice for nearly 16.5 million transport workers across the world.

ENDS

TSSA members attending a rally

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