Second Harvest’s very own Sami Abdurahim is the winner of this year’s Highway Star of the Year Award, presented by Today’s Trucking. The Highway Star of the Year exemplifies the best in Canadian truck drivers, who give back to their industry and community, and demonstrate an ongoing commitment to safety and professionalism. This is the first time that a Second Harvest staff member is receiving the award, which was presented to Sami at the Truck World show on April 23rd in Toronto.
Sami joined Second Harvest in 2006 and is the lead driver for our fleet of trucks. Second Harvest drivers do more than simply deliver food from the warehouse. They are a unique, frontline team of driver-ambassadors who work closely with agency staff at homeless shelters, seniors’ centres, after-school programs, food banks and many other non-profits that receive fresh, healthy perishable food. Sami’s professional, patient, and supportive approach is well-known among the agencies on his route.
Sami drives Second Harvest’s 18-wheel tractor-trailer covering long distances to pick up fresh produce in cities like Leamington or Trenton, which are about three hours away from Second Harvest’s warehouse in Toronto where Sami is based. The tractor-trailer can hold up to 55,000 pounds of food that is delivered to social agencies across southern Ontario. “People are in need, and I have a duty to make their lives better and put food on their tables. When we show up, all we see are people smiling and happy. That’s a big win for us. When they smile and wave and say thank you, that’s the reward.”
Sami explains that his work driving the tractor-trailer requires constant focus and attention to ensure safety on the roads and highways. Driving such a large truck is a big responsibility that leaves no room for error. “Being a Second Harvest driver requires a high skill level because there are kids, there are people with mental health issues and addictions. You must be aware of your surroundings,” he says. “It’s not just putting the key in the ignition. We must always keep an eye out for safety and be on our best behaviour.”
So how does Sami feel about being the winner of this year’s Highway Star award?
“There is no word to describe how it makes me feel. I’ve reached a big goal and it’s one of the best things to ever happen in my life. I’m very honoured and grateful that Highway Star chose me for the award. But it’s not just about me. This award is also a reflection of Second Harvest’s work, of the driver-ambassador team, and of leaders who provided the opportunity to grow and learn every day.”
See the full story from Today’s Trucking HERE.
