Sophie Zaini shares her experience on Northline’s Graduate Program

After 12 months of working at Northline as a graduate, Sophie Zaini (Putri Sorfina) shares what it’s like to be a woman in the transport industry, and her experience on the program so far:

You said you were most looking forward to the Operations rotations, was that the case?

Yes, absolutely! Working in an area that was unknown to me has given me so much confidence. When I first learnt to drive a forklift, I was too nervous to pick up anything higher than the bottom level. I kept asking the team for help or to watch me as I was doing it. But now I can pick up freight from two or three levels above me without a second thought.

Working in a predominantly male industry, it can be hard to shed the idea of “gender roles”, you know that women should be in the office and men in the more practical roles. As a whole, the Graduate Program has empowered me to try any task, any role, even if it’s out of my comfort zone.

Being a woman in the transport industry isn’t just about breaking stereotypes. It’s about creating a new narrative where skill, dedication, and passion are the driving forces, regardless of gender.

Since my rotation in the Warehouse, I have found my calling. I love the workload, I love the challenges, I love that every day is different.

If you could give a graduate one piece of advice, what would it be?

Always be grateful for every opportunity that comes your way. You’re on the program to learn everything you can, and to connect with everyone you can across the business. If you have that willingness and stay positive throughout, then you will get so much out of the program.

How would you summarise Northline’s graduate program to those interested in applying?

If you’re unsure of your future or career path, then Northline’s Graduate Program is the best tool to help you find your way. You get to experience so many departments, a lot of areas you think you won’t like but end up loving. Northline is very flexible in helping you to navigate your journey with the business and find where you fit best.

What was your most memorable moment of the program?

That’s a hard one to answer but probably meeting new people. I have made a lot of valuable connections, both from a personal perspective and from a professional perspective. But I have enjoyed every aspect of my experience in the Graduate Program.

What are your plans for after the Graduate Program?

For now, I want to focus on my work here at Northline and ensure that I am working at my very best.