In the fast-paced world of business, where challenges often outnumber victories, there are individuals like Joanna who stand out not just for their achievements, but for the hurdles they overcome to reach their goals. Joanna’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and a solid belief in one’s capabilities, even in the face of adversity.
Joanna, originally from Poland, is a businesswoman with an exceptional educational background. Her journey in the transportation industry is about building a successful business while breaking stereotypes and carving a path for gender equality. From an early age, Joanna had a passion for the world of transportation. She found the industry exhilarating, describing it as “never boring”. Armed with this enthusiasm and a thirst for knowledge, she pursued her education across different countries, mastering five languages along the way. Her academic journey culminated in a degree in International Law from Milan University.
Despite her impressive background and versatile skill set, Joanna faced challenges entering the traditionally male-dominated transportation industry. As she encountered skepticism, she had to put in extra effort to gain recognition. Nevertheless, Joanna’s perseverance never failed her. In 2018, while managing a substantial business portfolio in a transportation company, she made the courageous decision to start her own trucking business, Ontime Freight Ltd.
Launching a business from scratch and investing in such an uncertain venture, was no easy feat. However, Joanna’s determination and her exceptional skills in logistics paved the way for success. Starting with just one truck, Ontime Freight Ltd. company rapidly expanded. Joanna’s success inspired her husband to leave his job behind to join his wife’s business while she steered the company towards greater heights.
Today, Ontime Freight Ltd. boasts a fleet of nineteen trucks, operating in two UK cities and one in Poland. Joanna’s success is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and unwavering belief in her abilities. Joanna joined Amazon Relay in early 2020 – “We found out that Amazon could give us loads in Europe as well as the UK and we sign up for Relay!” – and she believes Relay to be the main reason for her company’s growth. From booking and executing loads on the Relay load board, to taking part in Auction to secure and fulfil lanes, Ontime Freight Ltd. consistently leverages Amazon Relay’s suite of products and features, finding them to be user-friendly for Carriers, accommodating for Drivers, and reliable in ensuring on-time payments. In her own word: “it’s easy for Carriers, flexible for Drivers, and offers on-time payment.”
Joanna’s story symbolizes a broader shift in the landscape of business, where gender barriers are gradually being dismantled. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women, highlighting the power of determination and resilience in overcoming obstacles. As she says: “To all women who are thinking of setting up their own business, is to have lots of confidence in yourself. The best investment is to invest in you.”
As we celebrate pioneers like Joanna, we remind ourselves that with determination, perseverance, and belief in oneself, anything is possible, even when the path ahead seems unachievable.
