When transport systems run smoothly, they not only move people but also drive opportunities, progress, and change across communities.

At CIDRZ, Brian Shinaka is one of the individuals ensuring this vital link remains strong. Since joining the organisation in 2008 as a driver, he has risen to the role of Fleet Officer, demonstrating ambition, passion, and a remarkable commitment to healthcare transformation despite his humble background.

Over the years, Brian’s role has evolved significantly, reflecting his dedication to continuous learning and meaningful contributions to public health programmes. Beyond his professional growth, he has also harnessed his musical talent for advocacy, further enriching his impact at CIDRZ.

Recently recognised during the Labour Day awards, Brian’s journey from driver to Fleet Officer and community advocate highlights the profound effect of perseverance and passion in making a meaningful difference. His commitment to personal growth and innovative approaches has strengthened CIDRZ’s operations while positively influencing the communities he serves.

“On 14th May 2008, I took a pivotal step in my career by joining CIDRZ as a driver. Transitioning from the profit-driven organisation to the non-profit sector marked the beginning of a transformative journey for me. The compelling stories I heard about CIDRZ’s works and its extensive outreach programmes in addressing health issues inspired me to join the organisation,” Brian recalled.

While working at CIDRZ, Brian pursued a Diploma in Management Studies and actively participated in community initiatives. His passion extended into music, and he used his musical talents as a gospel singer to create advocacy songs to support CIDRZ’s outreach efforts.

“Driven by the powerful experiences I witnessed in the health facilities and communities, I volunteered my musical talents to CIDRZ,” Brian recalls.

When the Facilities Department had a vacancy for a Fleet Officer in 2017, Brian applied despite initially being hesitant. Fortunately, he was selected as the successful candidate and has held the same position since then.

Brian’s academic journey did not stop with his Diploma. In 2017, he graduated with a Degree in Public Administration from the National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA). Furthermore, in 2018, he pursued a master’s degree in project management at the Information and Communications University (ICU). His academic journey was driven by his desire to shift his focus from fleet management to project management, aiming to handle projects from initiation to execution.

When asked about his role as a Fleet Officer, Brian says his responsibilities involve overseeing nearly 200 vehicles and a large team of CIDRZ drivers who traverse the width and breadth of Zambia almost daily, ensuring that the drivers operate efficiently, maintain high standards, and adhere to the organisation’s policies.

Additionally, Brian manages all aspects of CIDRZ’s fleet, including vehicle use, maintenance, fuel accounts, and transport support across projects, while also guiding driver development through mentorship, assessments, and recruitment panels.

“To ensure safety and compliance, I closely monitor driver behaviour through GeoTab, enforce speed limits, and organise regular defensive driving courses. I also support training sessions for new drivers to maintain high professionalism and fleet efficiency standards,” he says.

Outside of work, Brian is a devoted husband and father of four. He leverages his musical talents to support various causes, notably by producing advocacy songs that address critical health issues, including tuberculosis, men’s health, HIV, and COVID-19. With a track record of creating 20 advocacy songs for different organisations, including CIDRZ, Brian’s dedication to raising awareness and educating the community is evident.

“My passion for music began in Grade 10 at Isoka Boys, but it truly took shape in 2008. As a professional singer with an album featuring nine tracks, I have had the rare chance to produce songs for significant causes. I have created songs for the World Health Organisation, a Radio Phoenix programme called Teledoctor and composed a ‘morale-boosting’ song for CIDRZ’s Zed Corporate Soccer League finals.

Looking ahead, Brian envisions a future where his skills and passion for community work are even more integrated into his role at CIDRZ. He hopes to leverage his experience and education to drive impactful projects and make significant contributions to the organisation’s mission.