Women around the world are entering sectors once considered male-dominated, pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be resilient. In Kenya, the public transport sector has long been an industry where men dominate the workforce as drivers, conductors, and mechanics. However, trailblazers like Emma Nyambura are rewriting the narrative, proving that women are not only capable of thriving in this field but are also key in transforming the work environment.
Emma Nyambura, a single mother of two, is a conductor—or makanga, as they are commonly known in Kenya—on Nairobi’s 108 Ganaki route. Her journey into this unconventional line of work is marked by both personal challenges and a determination to provide for her family. Despite the industry’s traditionally male-centric nature, Nyambura has successfully navigated its complexities and continues to call on other women to join her in breaking these barriers.
The Push Towards Financial Independence
Nyambura’s entry into the public transport sector was driven by necessity. As the primary breadwinner in her family after marital setbacks, she needed a stable source of income to support her two children. Like many women in similar situations, Nyambura found herself faced with limited employment options in a tough economic climate. However, she refused to let traditional gender roles dictate her career path.
“I had to find a way to support my children,” Nyambura says. “In this line of work, it’s not about gender; it’s about making ends meet and securing a future for my kids.”
While many may view the role of a conductor as grueling and unfit for women, Nyambura embraced the challenge head-on. She recognized that financial independence was key not only to her survival but also to the well-being and future of her children. By joining the public transport sector, she found an avenue where she could work hard, earn a living, and provide a stable home for her family.
Overcoming Gender-Based Challenges in the Workplace
Despite her success, Nyambura’s journey has not been without its difficulties. One of the most pervasive challenges she faces is the constant pressure from male colleagues, particularly drivers and fellow conductors, who often expect more than a professional relationship. Sexual harassment, a common issue in male-dominated industries, is a challenge she continues to navigate while maintaining her focus on her job.
“At times, male colleagues expect something more than just a professional relationship, which sometimes creates a toxic work environment,” she explains.
Nyambura’s experience highlights the ongoing struggle for many women working in industries dominated by men. While they may be skilled, hardworking, and capable of performing their roles, they often face additional hurdles such as harassment, discrimination, and the societal belief that women are out of place in these jobs. For Nyambura, maintaining professionalism and setting boundaries are critical to her success. However, she remains steadfast in her belief that more women should join the industry to create a safer and more supportive environment for female workers.
The Importance of Representation and Empowerment
For Nyambura, the public transport sector represents more than just a paycheck—it is an opportunity to pave the way for other women to break into the industry. She believes that by increasing the number of women in these roles, they can challenge the toxic masculinity that sometimes permeates the workplace and create a more inclusive environment.
“We need to normalize seeing women in these roles,” Nyambura says. “It’s time we create our own space in this industry and show that we are just as capable.”
Nyambura’s call for more women to join the public transport sector is rooted in her desire for empowerment and representation. She believes that women have the ability to excel in any field, and that their presence can inspire others to step into positions traditionally held by men. By creating a community of women within the industry, Nyambura envisions a future where women feel more comfortable and supported in their work environment, free from the pressures of harassment and discrimination.
Her leadership and advocacy for greater gender equality in the workforce are also part of a broader movement to challenge societal norms and dismantle the barriers that keep women out of certain industries. As more women like Nyambura step forward and take on roles in sectors such as public transport, construction, and manufacturing, they help redefine what it means to be a woman in the modern workforce.
The Role of Societal Perception
The resistance women face in entering male-dominated industries is often a reflection of society’s deep-seated gender norms. In Kenya, like in many other countries, the public transport sector has long been associated with men, who are often seen as physically stronger and better suited for the demanding nature of the job. Women who step into this space are often viewed as “out of place” or may face backlash for defying societal expectations.
Nyambura’s story, however, serves as a reminder that these perceptions are not only outdated but harmful. When women are barred from certain industries based on preconceived notions about their capabilities, society misses out on the unique contributions they can make. Nyambura has shown that women possess the resilience, strength, and adaptability to thrive in any industry, regardless of gender.
Furthermore, by being visible in the public transport sector, Nyambura challenges the stereotypes surrounding women’s work. She demonstrates that women can take on jobs that are physically demanding, high-pressure, and traditionally male-dominated without sacrificing their identity or capabilities.
The Future for Women in Male-Dominated Industries
Nyambura’s journey is a testament to the fact that women can and will continue to break barriers in male-dominated industries. Her success as a conductor not only provides for her family but also serves as an inspiration for other women seeking financial independence and professional fulfillment in unconventional fields. By raising her voice and calling for more women to join her in the public transport sector, Nyambura is actively working to reshape the industry’s landscape.
As she continues to navigate the challenges of her profession, Nyambura remains hopeful that the future will bring greater gender equality in the workforce. Her vision is one where women feel empowered to pursue careers in any field they choose, without fear of harassment or discrimination. She also hopes that society will continue to evolve, becoming more accepting of women in non-traditional roles.
Conclusion
Emma Nyambura’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of representation. By stepping into the public transport sector and thriving in a traditionally male-dominated industry, she has not only provided for her family but also paved the way for other women to do the same. Her call for more women to join the industry is a rallying cry for gender equality in the workforce, and her journey serves as a reminder that women are just as capable, skilled, and deserving of opportunity in any field. As more women like Nyambura continue to break barriers, the future holds the promise of a more inclusive and equitable workforce for all.
