Vincent Truter is the founder and CEO of Cycology, which imports electric bicycles and promotes green mobility.
He tells Margaret Harris that cyclists need to begin claiming a space for themselves rather than waiting for municipalities to create dedicated cycle lanes.
What sparked your interest in cycling and green mobility? A multitude of things, but the first obvious spark was my chance encounter with an electric bicycle after my car was stolen. The feeling of liberation and freedom — the sense of connectedness to the environment and the people around me has stayed with me from that first ride in Johannesburg early in 2012. It was the spark that led me to embark on a coordinated and passionate effort to get South Africans to experience non motorised transport as a real alternative to the preferred fossil fuel-guzzling options. More and more people in Europe and the US are using e-bikes as a commuter option and South Africans are early adopters of this trend.
What are some of the challenges you have faced in trying to encourage more people to use bicycles more often? Once a new rider experiences the beauty of cycle motion, the biggest challenge has been overcome. The more cyclists there are on the road, the safer the road becomes. It is also important for people to understand that the bicycle can functionally contribute to their daily life and is not just a recreational item.
How important are dedicated bike lanes and other bicycle- friendly measures in encouraging more people to commute by bicycle? Bicycle lane infrastructure shows that space has been made for cyclists and give a sense of safety — we cannot underestimate the importance of this. Cape Town is leading the way nationally with various bicycle lanes. But, to be perfectly honest, if we wait for our municipalities and road agencies to dedicate resources to cycling, we are going to wait for a very long time. I believe that we have to start by claiming space on our roads.
What does your job involve? I am a human octopus. The most important part of my work as a "cycologist" is that I share inspiring information about electric bikes and cycling with as many people as possible. I spend lots of time presenting Cycology's vision to companies and government agencies.
I speak at many conferences around the world, such as TEDx Talks [a non-profit organisation's efforts to spread good ideas], which I love doing. I also develop routes tailored to my clients and take them out for a ride, and afterwards share with them some of our vision on green mobility and sustainability.
Another one of my favourite Cycology activities is curating cycle inspired exhibitions in our retail space called Window.
Your job is far from average, but what would an average work day involve? Part of the morning ritual would be tending to our blog on cycology.biz and then I start with the meetings. As the brand ambassador, I encourage ideas among all kinds of people — from suits and activists to greenies and hipsters. I see them about electric bicycle leasing packages, developing bespoke cycle experiences for companies and, of course, trying to cycle to as many of these meetings as I can.
What did you study and how does it help you do your job? My first degree was in journalism from Rhodes University, which equipped me with great communication skills. My second is a master's degree in exhibition design and museum studies from Gothenburg University in Sweden. This degree gave me an international perspective on how best to create immersive environments that both educate and inspire people.
What did you want to be when you were a child? Many things. One was a ninja. I wanted to be a ninja and master the art of lethal combat and develop the ability to be invisible to others. I don't believe we ever become one thing — it's a constant process of becoming and evolving.
What would you change about your work if you could? I would definitely get more people to help. You see, as glorious as it all sounds, it is pretty much driven by me. A little bit of delegation never hurt anyone and it would free me up to do what I am truly good at and take pleasure in. do this? I would most likely focus on choreographing Japanese dance performances, as well as curating exhibitions of interest and beauty.
What advice would you give to someone keen to follow in your footsteps? Diversify your life experience. The days of singular trajectories in careers are over. Underneath a seemingly schizophrenic career — from journalism to dance and exhibition design — there is a golden thread that comes from really kindling your passions and beliefs. This is more valuable than 10 years' experience in a design or branding company. Live and risk.
What is the most painful lesson you have learnt? Cast people for who they are, not who you want them to be. Because of my intense personality, I often bite and bump those who work with me simply because of my absolute conviction. Being more understanding of people's limitations and sensitivities without compromising your standards and nature goes a long way.
Caption: My Brilliant Career PEDAL POWER: Vincent Truter is involved in selling 'green' bicycles that cost between R9 500 and R27 950 Picture: JAMES OATWAY
Article Source: SUNDAY TIMES, Business Times Careers