Unitrans Passenger has made significant strides in promoting gender diversity at its Secunda Depot in Mpumalanga, boasting a female bus driver ratio that surpasses industry norms. This accomplishment reflects the company’s dedication to creating an inclusive workplace and highlights the increasing presence of skilled women in the transportation sector.
Grant Fleetwood, Unitrans’ Executive for Human Capital, emphasizes the importance of integrating diversity into business practices: “We aim to create social and economic value by fostering a workforce that includes female drivers. This not only improves safety and customer satisfaction but also contributes to a more equitable society.”
Traditionally, the transport industry—especially driving roles—has been male-dominated. The Secunda Depot, which operates 165 buses and employs 220 drivers, is challenging this narrative, with 72 female drivers accounting for 32% of the workforce, far exceeding the national industry average of 5-10%.
Fleetwood reaffirmed Unitrans’ dedication to promoting diversity: “We recognize the transformative power of a diverse team. Our commitment to gender equity continues as we cultivate a workplace where everyone has equal opportunities to succeed.”
Unitrans has implemented several initiatives to attract more women into its workforce, including a professional driver learnership programme that has been instrumental in training and employing female drivers across South Africa. Fleetwood adds, “We are proud to see women reshaping the perception of bus driving as a male-dominated profession.”
Andrew Lessing, Secunda Depot Manager, credited the presence of female drivers for the operation’s success and growth. “Their unique perspectives and problem-solving skills have boosted performance and customer satisfaction. This reflects the tangible benefits of genuine dedication to diversity and inclusion.”
Female drivers at the depot are known for their thoughtful, patient approach to their work, as well as their empathy—traits that are invaluable in roles requiring public interaction and navigating various traffic situations.
One notable example is Nompumelelo Mahlangu, who began her career as a bus driver in 2015 and now serves as a supervisor. She attributes the success of women drivers not only to Unitrans’ diversity initiatives but also to the supportive environment that empowers women to excel. “The support here has been crucial. There’s a culture that encourages women to reach their full potential, and that’s what drives their success,” Mahlangu explains.
Lessing added that female drivers tend to be more disciplined, adaptable, and gentle with the fleet, leading to reduced maintenance costs and greater operational efficiency.
In Secunda, where Unitrans transports many children, female drivers have excelled in managing young passengers with professionalism and care. Moreover, employing more women has contributed to economic empowerment in the area, offering stable, well-paying jobs that help reduce unemployment and promote financial independence for women in the region.
This gender diversity milestone at the Secunda Depot is a testament to Unitrans’ commitment to a more inclusive and diverse workforce—an achievement that is shaping both the transport industry and the community.
