Logistics talent Mojib Hekmat is making a career

When Mojib Hekmat (28) fled Afghanistan in 2013 and ended up in Eindhoven, he couldn't have imagined that within ten years he would have a management role in logistics. He was seventeen and knew nothing. "Now I can't imagine a more beautiful sector," he says proudly.

A new beginning in the Netherlands

Upon arriving in the Netherlands, the first challenge was learning the language. "That took me about two years," says Mojib. In 2015, he started a logistics program at MBO level 1 at Summa Plus. "The more I learned about logistics processes, the more interesting it became." Logistics diplomas at levels 2 and 3 soon followed. "Eventually, I also obtained the Logistics Supervisor level 4 through my employer. Without them, I would never have gotten this far."

That employer is Van Rooijen Logistiek in Eindhoven, where Mojib has worked since 2016. His perseverance was noticed there. "I started as an order picker, but I was given more and more responsibilities, such as processing incoming goods and supporting team leaders. I tackled everything with both hands." As assistant warehouse manager, Mojib now leads a team within the family business.

Stand out with the right mentality

The vocational training program was a perfect fit for Mojib. “The combination of theory and practice was fantastic. And the guidance was top-notch. I'll never forget teachers like Ivo Verhoeven and Stella van Houtum-Sneijders. I'm very grateful to them.”

At Summa Transport and logistics They have fond memories of their former student. But he also receives a lot of praise at work. "We quickly saw that Mojib wanted to achieve something," says Kim van de Wijdeven of Van Rooijen Logistiek. "He's motivated and enthusiastic every day; those are great qualities. What makes him special is that, despite his senior position, he still enjoys rolling up his sleeves. He finds that connection with colleagues very important. 'That way everyone can go home on time,' he says. Mojib is living proof that a lot is possible if you really want it. Everyone is happy with and for him."

Growing and continuing to learn

Mojib finds that logistics is constantly evolving. "Where we used to work with pen and paper, everything now runs on advanced management systems. We're constantly innovating. That makes the work challenging and enjoyable. Besides that, I get to work with so many great people. That's also very important."

He now also supervises Summa students doing internships at Van Rooijen. "I now see my former internship supervisors in a different role, and I'm sharing my knowledge with them. I find that very special."

His future plans? "I'm not done learning yet. I want to keep developing. Summa might see me again someday; there are always courses available to ensure we stay up-to-date in this changing world."

Mojib shone in a section of TON, the magazine for people who work in transport and logistics. The photo above was taken by Harry Linker.