JoyRide’s First Employee
JoyRide’s leadership team reflects on a transformative year of stabilization, safety recognition, fleet technology innovation, and building scalable systems for sustainable growth.
The Interview
A conversation about transformation, challenges, and the path forward
Fuad, you are JoyRide Logistics' very first employee! What did the first day of the company look like compared to where we are today?
Being the first employee as a truck driver, while also helping found the company, was a truly special experience. Even though I had already been working as a driver for 8 years, those first days were filled with anxiety and fear. My biggest worry was whether our truck would break down on the road since it wasn't new, but pre-owned. Over time, things became easier. We finally had the space to establish operational standards, learn our routes, find more efficient ways to haul freight, and solve the natural challenges that arise in a new business.
What made you believe in the JoyRide story right from the very beginning?
Although we literally started from zero—with JoyRide consisting of just Adis, myself, and our one truck—we already had a clear vision back then. We shared a strong belief in hard work, honesty, and a drive to build something meaningful. I couldn't have known for sure that JoyRide would grow into such a reputable company, but Adis had the vision. Our willingness to work day and night is what made me proud to be part of this story from day one.
What is your favorite moment or success from all these years with the company?
The moment that gave me true hope that my expectations weren't in vain was when JoyRide leased its very first truck for a new driver. It was a small step, but a huge milestone for JoyRide.
Over the years, you’ve driven many different trucks. Which one remains your favorite model and why?
Through the years, I've driven a lot of different trucks, but my absolute favorite will always be the one we started this journey with. It wasn't the newest or the most luxurious, but it holds my best memories. Inside that cab, I was dreaming the "American Dream." It serves as a constant reminder of where we started and how much you can achieve when you truly believe in your work.
As someone who has experienced "a bit of everything" on the road, what is the most important thing every driver must have in their cab?
If we're talking about essential items, every driver needs clear and valid paperwork (including their license), a mobile phone with a charger, a first-aid kit, food and water, a high-visibility vest, a flashlight, basic tools, spare fuses, a fire extinguisher, warm clothing, and a blanket. However, while all of those physical items are vital, the absolute most important things a driver must bring into the cab are common sense, patience, and responsibility.
What is something people in the office often don't fully understand about the life and daily challenges of drivers on the road?
People in the office often see plans, schedules, and numbers; drivers on the road see reality. What office teams don't always see is that a single traffic jam, severe weather, a mechanical breakdown, or a long wait at a loading/unloading dock can completely disrupt a driver's entire day. Drivers are making decisions under constant pressure every single day, spending days and weeks away from their families, sleeping in their trucks, and carrying a massive responsibility for the safety of both people and freight. When the office understands the challenges of the road, and the drivers understand the challenges of planning and organization, that's when the entire company becomes unstoppable.
JoyRide has welcomed many new drivers. What advice or "golden rule" would you share with them as someone who knows this job inside out?
You don’t become a great driver overnight—miles will teach you far more than any book ever can. Be patient, listen to older and more experienced colleagues, and never assume you already know everything. Always put safety ahead of speed. Respect your truck; it is your workplace and your partner on the road. Stay professional with dispatchers, colleagues, and customers because a driver’s reputation spreads fast. No matter how exhausted you are, regardless of breakdowns or terrible weather, stay calm, think ahead, and don't let temporary problems drive you into making bad decisions. Always remember: you aren't just representing yourself—you represent your family, your team, and the company you drive for.
Today, you support all teams across the company. How does your deep experience on the road help you bridge the gap between drivers and the office team?
Having walked in the driver's shoes for so long allows me to translate the real-time conditions of the road into actionable context for our dispatch and management teams. Because I understand the stress behind the wheel as well as the operational goals of the office, I can mediate, solve issues quickly, and ensure both sides are working with mutual empathy and respect.
After all these years, what still brings you the most joy and motivation at JoyRide?
What continues to motivate and delight me every day is seeing just how far we’ve come. Looking back at where we started compared to today—seeing the company expand into such a respected business—fills me with happiness knowing that I’ve been a part of this story since the very first day.
