Level 1 B-BBEE status underpins Elegant Fuel’s commitment to empowerment

Elegant Fuel was awarded a coveted level 1 broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) certificate on 9 April 2020, placing us among the small percentage of South African industry players who have achieved the highest level of contribution to B-BBEE.

“Our level 1 status underpins our proudly South African contribution as a service provider that is deeply invested in the development of our people and communities,” says director Faith Matsena.

In recent weeks, the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic has greatly affected communities in South Africa and across the globe, but, as an essential service, Elegant remains fully operational to ensure efficient delivery of bulk fuel during the national lockdown.

“We’re honoured that our commitment to growing the economy as an empowering supplier has been recognised through the level 1 B-BBEE certification,” says Matsena. “It’s also a manifestation of our commitment to transformation within our industry, and to growing and sustaining the economy.”

What makes the achievement even more significant in a highly competitive space is the fact that very few industry rivals have attained level 1 B-BBEE status, she adds, noting that when Elegant moved into smaller communities after big operators pulled out, it assisted clients in improving their operations and their bottom lines.

We remain dedicated to running skills programmes in our communities, creating sustainable jobs and unlocking individuals’ potential. Our initiatives include training and helping to fund budding artisans, upskilling and employing interns, and other programmes.

These objectives are not only aligned with our B-BBEE plan, we genuinely believe they help to make South Africa a better place for all.

“It’s about partnerships and relationships – without the communities that support us, we would not have achieved the success we have so far,” Matsena notes.

Elegant’s dream is to make a measurable impact, and to grow and employ more people. We believe that, on a wider scale, our new status will also benefit consumers. Many of our stations are operated by previously disadvantaged South Africans.

“We’re proud that our organisation is an essential part of the backbone of South Africa’s economy and this relates to our overarching theme: #ElegantEmpowers,” Matsena concludes.