In a country where the transport sector has traditionally been dominated by men, a shift is underway, powered by the inspiring stories of women who are breaking barriers and redefining what it means to be a taxi driver. Through a partnership between Abou Ghaly Motors and EFE-Egypt, supported by People 1st International in an EBRD-funded project, a group of women has stepped into a field where female participation has been limited. These women are not only mastering their profession but also breaking barriers and challenging gender stereotypes, while embracing personal growth and building confidence.

The role of supportive work environments

The common thread in their stories is the support they’ve received from Abou Ghaly Motors, where flexible working conditions, a focus on professional development and a culture of inclusivity have enabled them to thrive.

Women like Heba Wahby, who joined Abou Ghaly Motors’ London Cab operation after discovering the opportunity through social media, found that the initial challenges of working in a traditionally male-dominated field were made easier by the company’s strong support system. The induction process and ongoing guidance from colleagues helped Heba quickly build emotional resilience and the ability to handle the stresses of the job, especially when dealing with customers. Similarly, Asmaa Hassan, who became one of the first female captains at London Cab, was able to thrive thanks to the company’s safe, structured environment that encouraged growth without the burden of gender-related challenges.

Building professionalism and key skills for success

While the emotional and social aspects of the job are vital, the development of practical skills has been equally important in these women’s journeys. Learning how to operate electric vehicles, manage vehicle charging and navigate the intricacies of city streets were all essential skills these women had to master. For many, it was the ability to adapt to the technological demands of the job, combined with a calm and focused mindset, that enabled them to succeed.

Maram Hany, who proactively reached out to London Cab even before they were recruiting, quickly learned the ins and outs of driving electric vehicles. Overcoming early challenges related to vehicle charging, Maram discovered that success in the field required not just technical know-how, but emotional resilience and patience. Similarly, Asmaa Hassan emphasised the importance of navigating and understanding the vehicle’s size, noting that these practical skills were crucial for her success, even more so than the technology itself.

In addition to technical skills, these women also honed their abilities to set boundaries with customers and maintain professionalism under pressure. Heba, for example, learned how to manage customer expectations while still maintaining empathy, which has been crucial in building her confidence and establishing her professional identity as a taxi driver.

Flexibility and adaptability: The key to balancing work and life

Another theme that emerges from these women’s experiences is the flexibility of the job, which has enabled them to balance their professional lives with their personal responsibilities. The ability to set their own hours and work in a flexible environment has made taxi driving an ideal career for many of them, particularly those with families.

Heba, who is a mother, highlighted the job’s compatibility with motherhood, explaining how the flexibility of her role allows her to manage her family life while still pursuing a fulfilling career. This flexibility has not only provided these women with the ability to support their families but has also empowered them to make their own decisions about how and when they work, providing a sense of autonomy and control over their lives.

For women like Maram and Asmaa, who had no prior experience in the industry, the job’s adaptability was crucial in allowing them to thrive. They both found that working in a flexible environment helped them overcome the challenges they initially faced and grow into confident, skilled professionals.

Looking ahead: A bright future

The journey of these women is not just about personal transformation; it’s also about shaping the future of Egypt’s transport sector. By breaking down barriers and challenging societal expectations, they are paving the way for future generations of women who will follow in their footsteps.

Through its model approach to inclusivity, Abou Ghaly Motors has shown that gender equality in the transport sector is achievable. Providing the right support, inclusive policies and a focus on skill development allows women to thrive and challenge long-standing gender norms in the industry.