How 17years old Edith Chance is breaking gender barriers as a bus mechanic in Fort Portal City

BY MOLLY KAMAKUNE

Edith Chance, a resilient 17-year-old, defies gender norms as she serves as the primary breadwinner for her family of five. In a society where mechanics are predominantly male, Edith has taken on the role of a mechanic at Link Bus Services in Fort Portal Bus Terminal.

Her daily responsibilities involve repairing and maintaining the fleet of buses that come and go from Fort Portal City.

Beginning her day in the morning, Edith embarks on a 5km journey from Kitumba Kaihokwa Central Division in Fort Portal City to the male-dominated environment of Link Bus Terminals in Kiculeta in Central Division Fort Portal City.

Her motivation is clear – she chose this profession not to be reliant on boys and men for survival but to carve her path and financially support her family.

Reflecting on her journey, Edith said, “I wake up every morning and prepare for the day ahead. Walking to Link Bus Terminal, I am determined to execute my duties as a bus mechanic. It has been three years since I joined the company, and I haven’t faced any significant challenges at the workplace. I am now confident in my abilities, having mastered the intricacies of bus engines and proving that gender should not limit one’s potential.”

“When I completed my P7 in 2021 and achieved 16 aggregates, financial constraints prevented me from pursuing secondary education. Instead, I made a selfless decision to support my younger sister’s enrollment in secondary school ” She said.

Driven by both passion and necessity, she embarked on a vocational journey, turning her long-awaited dream into reality. Opting for hands on skills, she went to the Fort Portal Link Bus terminal, where she was warmly welcomed.

“I vividly recall the day I reached the manager’s office. Despite being advised to focus on smaller cars due to my gender, my dream was working on larger vehicles like Lorries, buses, or trailers. I am grateful to Link Bus for providing me the opportunity to showcase my abilities and make my dream come true.”

She mentioned that the company did not require any payment for the learning opportunity; it was provided free of charge. However, she had to cover her expenses for food and transportation to and from the terminal during the two-year learning period.

Despite these costs, she expressed gratitude for the warm reception she received and the chance to turn her dream into reality and said she has expertise in fixing all mechanical problems associated with the bus engine and other mechanical problems the bus may have.

According to her, she entered the Link bus with a passion to learn and was particularly impressed by the positive reception. She specifically mentioned Mr Edward Nyakaana, the mechanic team leader, who welcomed her and taught her all the skills needed for mechanics.

Her future aspiration is to own a garage, acknowledging the capital-intensive nature of such an endeavor. She also desires to train other women, aiming to empower them and discourage dependence on men or resorting to begging.

While she is currently not a permanent staff member, she contributes by participating in tasks like lifting luggage when buses need servicing. On such days, she earns around Shs 20,000. She hopes that the company will consider her for a permanent position, providing a stable income to support the family she cares for.

“I dream of starting my garage for large vehicles and establishing a mechanic school to train fellow women, similar to how I have been trained. I aim to empower women to break free from dependency and learn to work, earning their own money. I believe that every girl child should be patient and hopeful, understanding that no condition is permanent,”

Muhammad Byamukama (Musiramu), the manager of Link Bus Fort Portal terminal, expressed his enthusiasm about working with Chance in the mechanic sector, emphasizing her valuable contributions to the team. Describing Chance as determined, focused, and hardworking, Musiramu highlighted her passion for the work she does.

Musiramu underscored the importance of gender equality in every company and organization worldwide, emphasizing that having a diverse workforce, including all genders, is crucial.  Reflecting on Chance’s initial approach to joining the company, Musiramu recalled advising her to consider smaller vehicles.

However, Chance remained resolute in pursuing her dream of working on larger vehicles like trailers, Lorries, and buses. Despite his efforts to convince her otherwise, Musiramu admired her confidence and belief in herself. He ultimately recommended her to the team, where she began her learning journey.

“As a Link Bus company, we aspire to have more women working with us in various sectors. Unfortunately, we don’t receive many applications from women. In the past, we had one hardworking and trustworthy woman as a driver, but she eventually moved on to a different organization,” Musiramu noted.

Edward Nyakaana, the team leader of Link Bus Mechanics Fort Portal, echoed the call for increased participation of women in all working fields. Drawing from his experience in the army, Nyakaana emphasized that many successful and powerful companies, organizations, and sectors are led by women. He highlighted the qualities of focus, determination, and lack of greed in women, contrasting it with the tendencies of men to be unsettled and unsatisfied.

“I have witnessed the power and ability of women during my time in various walks of life. Women serve with passion, and dedication, and strive for perfection. That’s why I had no hesitation in working with Chance; I trust in the abilities of women, and she has not disappointed,” Nyakaana added.