Rajesh “John” Singh
Image: Nadia Khan
AT JUST 12 years old, Rajesh “John” Singh began his journey selling newspapers on the street corners of the Durban central business district.
Last Monday, he celebrated 45 years of service with Independent Media, 15 years of which have been in the returns department.
Singh, 59, of Croftdene in Chatsworth, shared his journey of humble beginnings.
“I was still in school when a contractor for the company, who lived on the same road as I, asked if I wanted to earn some pocket money. He was in charge of the street sales. I did not come from a wealthy family, so I accepted the offer.
“I was picked up after school and on weekends, and taken to Gale Street, which was very busy. I sold all the newspapers – the Daily News, The Mercury, the POST, as well as the Sunday Tribune. I earned about R5 a day, which was enough to give some money to my family and buy sweets,” he said.
Singh is married and has two daughters. On April 27, 1981, he was officially registered with the company, and started working in the home deliveries department.
“I did deliveries on a bicycle. I cycled from the office building to deliver newspapers to the residents in the beachfront flats, and businesses along the way. I then cycled back to the office.
“Later, I was dropped off in Clairwood, and from there I cycled to Wentworth, Merebank and the old airport in Isipingo, delivering newspapers. I carried the newspapers in a box attached to my bicycle. I then cycled back to Clairwood where I was picked up. It was a long trip, but it kept me fit. I did this for almost 20 years,” he said.
Singh said he then applied for a job in the returns department.
“I was lucky because over 30 people applied for the position. I was appointed as a returns checker, a position I hold to date. I am responsible for checking the quality of all the returned newspapers and magazines, such as those that are not sold in the shops.”
Singh said he was proud to celebrate 45 years of service.
“It is a great feeling to give my service to the company for so many years. I enjoyed meeting the new people who have joined the company over the years, as well as people while doing deliveries. When I go to the beachfront, they still recognise me. It makes me happy.”
Reshalin Naidoo, General Manager, Independent Media, KZN, said: "Celebrating Rajesh’s remarkable service is a proud moment for everyone at Independent Media. His journey, from selling newspapers on the streets of Durban to becoming a valued and respected member of our operations team, embodies the dedication, resilience and work ethic that have helped shape this company over generations. Rajesh’s loyalty, humility and unwavering commitment to excellence are deeply admired, and we thank him for his extraordinary contribution and the legacy he continues to build within our organisation."