Female taxi driver shares her views on Women’s Month

As we celebrate National Women’s Month, the Record marked the occasion by interviewing the hard-working Rose Manana Dube who shared her experience of being a female driver in an industry that is dominated mostly by men.

The 54-year-old works from the Westgate Mall taxi rank to Johannesburg, and from Johannesburg to areas around Dobsonville and Tshepisong.

Here’s what Rose had to say about what the taxi industry is like for women in South Africa:

• What does Women’s Day or month mean to you?

I have had a few occasions where male taxi drivers would speak to me differently or treat me differently than other taxi drivers, especially when I’m in the car.

Women’s Month reminds me of how women fought and are still fighting to be recognised as people who are able to work in a men-dominated workplace.

• How would you address the cultural issues that form the background of the gender pay gap?

It’s a bit tricky to address it because in terms of work-related issues we can be equal, but we differ in terms of strength and morals.

I definitely think there’s room for change; I think the best way to create more equal conditions is to educate and make people aware that there are female drivers in the industry – make them aware how we do the same day job for the same pay and meet the same people every day.

• What are the most effective ways to counteract the negative stereotypes of feminism, especially in the workplace?

The best way for me is to avoid paying attention to negative talk or engaging in groups that cause friction. The trick is to get along with everyone so that they can understand we as women better.

• Why haven’t we achieved equality, despite legislation in place regarding pay?

The belief is that women are more committed to and useful in family issues than in work-related matters, so they are expected to spend more time at home than at work.

• What would you change about men’s assumptions about women?

If we as women taxi drivers can conduct ourselves in a manner that will change their thinking about us; and I think having a little bit more female advertising would be very beneficial.

I know I have seen advertising relevant to women in the industry but I think having more would be no harm at all.

• How do you succeed in a male-dominated environment?

By facing every challenge with a humble spirit, at the same time stating your point, showing perseverance and working hard.

• What can men do to help achieve equality?

I think that men just have to acknowledge that we are there and respect it. They need to be taught awareness about how we do the same day job for the same pay and meet the same people every day.