Biftu, along with three other women, were recently supported by WomenCAN Australia to gain their HR Licences and train to become Bus Drivers.
Having already gained experience driving buses in South Africa prior to moving to Australia, Biftu had the skills but just needed the connection, some encouragement and support to succeed.
Biftu says, “Thanks to the support from WomenCAN Australia, I felt confident walking into my bus driver interview with Transit Systems. They not only helped me refine my skills but also empowered me to believe in myself every step of the way.”
Now four months on, having completed her training and gained experience driving school buses, Biftu is eager and ready to take on the public bus route and passenger coaches.
A key part of Biftu’s success was the peer-led support facilitated by WomenCAN Australia. By bringing women together to complete their training alongside each other, it provides peer-led support, encouragement and opportunities for discussion, which is so valuable.
Biftu explained, “WomenCAN Australia helped me with the English language barrier. They personally helped me and advised me how I must talk to other people. WomenCAN Australia support not only me, but my colleagues too. They give us hope.”
The support from the Transit Systems Victoria team certainly played a key role. Biftu’s trainers, John and Emilio, were patient and encouraging, and the whole team ensured that Biftu, and the other trainees were welcomed and valued.
John Storms, Managing Director of Transit Systems Victoria states “When I’m standing in the driveway to see Biftu pulling in the bus, the look on her face is inspirational. The level of confidence on her face and in her voice, it’s empowering for us as a business. It’s been an outstanding result.”
We would like to thank the Fernwood Foundation Shine Grant and Transit Systems Victoria for their support to produce this video and share Biftu’s amazing journey.
