West Footscray based bus operator Transit Systems and not-for-profit WomenCAN Australia have joined forces to empower women by training them to become bus drivers.
Aimed at providing opportunities and supporting women to excel in industries where they are underrepresented, the partnership has resulted in four local women becoming licensed drivers for Transit Systems who operate public bus services between the western suburbs and the Melbourne CBD.
The four newly qualified bus drivers, Annette, Biftu, Souzet and Sarah, all come from multicultural backgrounds and received assistance such as work readiness training, resume writing assistance and interview techniques from WomenCAN Australia before even being chosen for the bus driving program at Transit Systems.
“I felt very nervous and filled with anxiety but with the support and guidance from WomenCAN Australia and the team at Transit Systems, I felt empowered, knowing I had a team behind me that believed in my potential,” said Annette, a young mother of four originally from Uganda.
Biftu agreed, saying the support continued once they were selected for the bus driver training program itself.
“As a Muslim woman who is newly arrived in Australia, entering a traditionally male-dominated field, having WomenCAN Australia and Transit Systems support was life-changing,” she said.
“Their support transformed my nervousness into excitement, and now I’m ready to hit the road and drive towards a brighter future and I hope to inspire other women.”
Alongside partnering with Transit Systems to help women become bus drivers, WomenCan have similar partnerships with businesses in warehousing, heavy vehicle transport, aged care, and childcare.
“We are dedicated to breaking down barriers in male-dominated fields, creating pathways for greater inclusivity and opportunity,” said acting chief executive of WomenCAN, Ann Smith in explaining the partnership program.
Transit Systems managing director John Storms said his company was happy to reap the benefits.
“We’re thrilled to welcome these four amazing women into our team,” Mr Storms said.
“This partnership is all about helping women build the confidence, skills and support they need to thrive in our industry. We look forward to seeing their growth and contribution to the community.”
Cade Lucas
