WBENC (Women’s Business Enterprise National Council) certification is the most widely recognized and respected national certification for women-owned businesses in the U.S.
Vildana Danan, chairwoman of JoyRide Logistics, LLC, marked the milestone as “Empowering” after JoyRide has received its WBENC certification. Interestingly enough, it was Vildana who sparked the idea with the unique and now well – recognized name, JoyRide Logistics. Together with her husband, President Adis Danan, they embarked on this ambitious journey, laying the foundation for a trucking company with a distinct approach and identity.
“Embarking on this dynamic industry path has been an exhilarating ride, filled with constant change and growth. It’s a testament to our unwavering dedication and our ability to adapt and thrive.”
From its humble beginnings with just a single driver, JoyRide has now expanded into a formidable entity, boasting a fleet of over 250 drivers. Spanning multiple states, we collaborate with some of the world’s leading companies, continuously breaking barriers that once seemed insurmountable.
Adis envisioned revolutionizing the industry, aspiring to establish a company that would stand as a model of success for both Drivers and Shippers. However, it was Vildana who set the cultural cornerstone of the company, starting with its very name and the objectives it pursues. Her focus on empowering minority groups and fostering female leadership has been instrumental in guiding the company to its current heights.
The management team at JoyRide, led by Vildana, proudly features women in 60% of its leadership roles, ranging from Chief Operating Officers to the Director of Safety. As Adis succinctly states, “Vildana and I always had each other and our dreams of making it in the world. We knew that through hard work, determination, integrity and a tiny bit of luck, we could make those dreams a reality.”
Vildana’s role has been fundamental, providing unwavering support and invaluable insights throughout their shared entrepreneurial adventure.
This award means a lot, but it’s even more special because it highlights how important Vildana’s role has been in our story. She’s shown everyone what women can achieve, especially in industries where you don’t see as many women in charge.
We recently had the opportunity to interview the Chairwoman of the Board of JoyRide Logistics, Vildana Danan, delving into her inspiring journey and the path she has carved at the company, and discussing the significant impact and success brought about by the National Women’s Business Enterprise Certification.
“This award isn’t just a pat on the back for us – it’s proof that the hard work and dreams that started JoyRide Logistics were worth it.” as acknowledged by Vildana, who was very open to answer any questions related to the achievement itself as well as goals of the company.
Looking back to 2014, when JoyRide Logistics was just a concept, what were your initial feelings and expectations about the venture?
In 2014, when JoyRide Logistics was still just a concept, we felt a mixture of excitement and determination. It was thrilling to think about building something from the ground up, especially in an industry as challenging as trucking. Our expectations were realistic; We knew it wouldn’t be easy, but we had a strong belief in our vision and the capabilities of our team.
Adis’s vision for JoyRide Logistics centered around creating an environment where drivers not only enjoy a safe workplace but also embrace a healthier lifestyle. He believes in fostering a culture that supports the well-being of every driver, ensuring they have ample opportunities for rest, a balanced life, which is as crucial as the time they spend on the road.
We anticipated many obstacles, but we were equally confident in our ability to overcome them and establish a successful company.
Who or what has been your biggest source of inspiration and support throughout your journey with JoyRide Logistics?
My biggest source of inspiration and support throughout this journey with JoyRide Logistics has undoubtedly been my husband, Adis. His vision, determination, and leadership have been the driving force behind our success. Working alongside him, I’ve learned invaluable lessons about the industry, resilience, and the power of a shared dream. His unwavering support and belief in our collective goals have been pivotal in navigating the challenges and celebrating the triumphs of this journey.
Was meeting the standards set by the WBENC a challenging process? How did it push JoyRide Logistics to evolve?
Achieving the WBENC certification was a smooth process for JoyRide Logistics. Our team includes many talented women in key roles, which played a big part in us being recognized. It’s our way of showing we’re serious about having skilled and forward-thinking people on board. Plus, we’re almost at our 10th anniversary, which proves we’re doing things right. Going through this process made us look at how we do things and keep getting better, especially when it comes to supporting everyone on our team.
Looking ahead, what is your vision for the role of women in the trucking industry and how does JoyRide Logistics plan to contribute to this vision?
Looking forward, our vision at JoyRide Logistics is to see more women take on various roles in the trucking industry, from driving trucks to leading companies. We believe in empowering women by providing equal opportunities and a supportive work environment. JoyRide is committed to being at the forefront of this change, fostering a culture where women’s contributions are valued and their career growth is actively supported. We’re not just talking about change; we’re making it happen.
What advice would you give to other women looking to break into traditionally male-dominated industries like trucking?
My advice to women eyeing traditionally male-dominated fields like trucking is to be fearless and confident in your abilities. Don’t let stereotypes or societal expectations limit your ambitions. It’s crucial to find a supportive network or a mentor who can guide and encourage you. Remember, your unique perspective and skills are invaluable assets. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, and always stand firm in your convictions. The road might not always be easy, but your journey can pave the way for others.
In what ways do you think the WBENC Certification will impact the operations or direction of JoyRide Logistics?
The WBENC Certification marks a significant milestone for JoyRide Logistics. It opens up a realm of opportunities, significantly enhancing our operations and strategic direction. With this certification, we’re now part of a broader network of women-owned businesses, granting us invaluable access to specific business opportunities tailored for certified firms like ours. This translates to greater visibility in corporate and government supply chains, which is a tremendous advantage.
In essence, the WBENC Certification isn’t just a badge of honor; it’s a gateway to accelerated growth, expanded business relationships, and enhanced learning, all of which are vital in driving JoyRide Logistics toward greater success and influence in the trucking industry.
As JoyRide Logistics approaches its 10th anniversary, how do you think this certification aligns with the company’s values and vision for the future?
Looking forward, this certification aligns perfectly with our vision of a more inclusive and diverse industry. It’s not just a recognition of what we’ve achieved but also a roadmap for where we want to go. We see this as an opportunity to inspire other companies to embrace diversity, proving that it’s not only a moral choice but also a smart business strategy.
As we near our ten-year milestone, this certification reinforces our commitment to challenging norms and leading the charge for greater female representation in the trucking industry. It stands as a testament to our dedication to fostering a fair, equitable, and inclusive work environment, a cornerstone we deem vital for the ongoing evolution and success of both our industry and JoyRide Logistics
