The Rise of Sizwe Mpungose: the Sixty60 rider training thousands in safer riding skills

Behind every delivery bag on South Africa’s roads is a worker with ambition, responsibility, and a story worth telling.

Few embody this better than 29-year-old Sizwe Mpungose, a Sixty60 delivery rider whose commitment to safety and mentorship is reshaping the way riders navigate the country’s roads.

Raised in Eshowe in KwaZulu Natal, Sizwe credits his upbringing for the discipline and awareness that guide his work today.

“Eshowe is a place where you learn to be patient, observant, and respectful of others,” he siad. .

“We grow up understanding that small mistakes can have big consequences. Because of that, I approach my work with discipline and a strong sense of responsibility.”

Mpungose joined Pingo Delivery, the Shoprite Group’s on demand delivery network, in June 2023 as an independent contractor.

His love for riding and his passion for engaging with customers quickly made him stand out.

Within months, his supervisor recognised him as one of the network’s top performing riders and encouraged him to apply for the Motorcycle Safety Institute instructor programme.

After completing the programme, Mpungose began training riders across the province in essential road safety skills.

Today he balances deliveries and training, having already mentored nearly three hundred riders.

“I enjoy passing on the knowledge and experience I gain from MSI to new drivers,” he said.

“It is rewarding to know that I am helping to prepare safer and more responsible riders.”

Training a new generation of safe riders

As an instructor, Mpungose quickly discovered the most common challenges new riders face.

“New riders often struggle with balance, observation, and speed,” he explains.

His training method is deliberate and structured, focusing on slow speed control, defensive riding and disciplined riding habits.

With encouragement and consistent practice, he says most riders improve quicker than they expect.

His most fulfilling moments come from helping nervous riders transform into confident professionals.

“My most rewarding moment was seeing a nervous rider finally complete his first confident ride after struggling in the beginning,” he added.

“Helping someone break through fear and become safe on the road is the best part of being an instructor.”

Through the training process, Mpungose gained a deeper understanding of South Africa’s road challenges.

“Training riders every day has shown me how many challenges exist on our roads,” he says.

“Many accidents can be prevented through better rider awareness, proper observation, and consistent use of protective gear.”

Living the principles he teaches

Despite the pressure of fast delivery times, Mpungose remains dedicated to safe riding.

“I manage fast delivery expectations by staying calm, planning ahead, and riding smart,” he says.

“Safe riding will always be more important than rushing, and the truth is that smooth and controlled riding gets you there faster in the long run.”

He follows a strict daily routine designed to keep him safe and focused. “Before I start riding, I make sure my mind is clear and I am fully alert,” he says. He inspects his bike carefully and never rides without full protective gear. “It is part of my safety routine and keeps me focused and protected every day.”

A Growing Ecosystem of Support

Sizwe credits Pingo Delivery and the Shoprite Group for significant investments in rider safety.

“Pingo has made a big impact on rider safety by investing in more than just bikes,” he says. He highlights defensive riding training, protective gear, regular bike maintenance and upgraded systems that monitor road behaviour as major contributors to a safer working environment.

To date, Pingo Delivery has trained more than three thousand four hundred riders and aims to reach seven thousand five hundred by year end.

His outstanding commitment recently earned him the Instructor of the Year title at the annual Pingo Driver Recognition Awards.

The recognition, based on assessments by MSI Chief Instructor Hein Jonker and feedback from trainees, marked a milestone in his growing career.

“Being recognised for my work was an incredible honour,” he says.

“It motivated me to keep improving and to inspire others to prioritise safety and professionalism on the road.”

A vision for safer roads

Looking ahead, Mpungose believes the future of safer roads depends on a combination of continuous training and smarter tools.

“Teaching riders advanced defensive skills, equipping them with smart tools, and educating motorists about sharing the road can drastically reduce accidents,” he says.

He also hopes his journey shows young South Africans what is possible in the delivery and logistics industry.

“Prioritise safety, be disciplined, and never stop learning,” he advises. “With patience and dedication, there is a real opportunity for growth and a sustainable career.”

For Mpungose, the road ahead is one of continued growth, leadership, and impact. “I hope my story shows that with hard work and the right attitude, anyone can make a positive impact,” he says.

His story is more than a personal achievement. It is a reminder that behind every delivery lies a network of individuals who are helping to build a safer and more resilient road culture for South Africa.

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