Ekurhuleni female taxi bosses empowered
The women were urged to remain authentic as they grow their portfolios in the male-dominated industry
The Mayor of the City of Ekurhuleni Tania Campbell ended the last Friday of Women’s Month on a high note when she honoured 119 women in the public transport sector.
Joined by Roads and Transport MMC, Alco Ngobese, the mayor attended a graduation gala dinner at Premier Hotel in Kempton Park.
According to the mayor’s spokesperson, Phakamile Mbengashe, certificates of qualification in business were bestowed on the 119 widowed women, who have been owning taxis after losing their male loved ones.
As part of the course, sponsored by KTVR bus service that operates the bus rapid system in Ekurhuleni dubbed Harambee, the women were trained in various aspects of business over five months.
The glittering event saw the Ekurhuleni Taxi Industry (ETI) women celebrate their newfound qualifications as they officially got handed their certificates, with the mayor and MMC officiating.
Campbell urged the women to remain authentic as they grow their portfolios in a male-dominated industry.
“This graduation is very close to my heart as it reminds me so much of where I am as a leader in a space that is historically dominated by men. As much as you and I work in very diverse challenging spaces, I urge you to emulate how our multi-party coalition government in the city is succeeding by finding that common ground.
“Ensure you work hard towards finding and retaining that common ground while you ensure you do not lose your femininity”, said Campbell, while motivating the new graduates.
The KTVR assured the attendees that this being the first batch of female graduates in the business of operating taxis, it will not be the last one.
The chairperson of KTVR Bus Service Dr Mandla Mtshali committed to canvassing to have some key positions awarded to women in their next elections.
“While this celebratory event was not the last for this month of women in the City of Ekurhuleni, the mayor certainly closed off this week on a jovial note with a group of proud and elated women,” said Mbengashe.
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