Fane enjoys being a cab driver
She urges women not to live in fear or feel intimidated or belittled by other people’s
DESPITE the daily challenges she faces as a woman cab driver, Fane George enjoys her job. She has been a cab driver under the renowned taxi company Tiko Kece Taxis & Hire in Suva for three years now and says she likes to challenge herself and explore new things.
That is why she became a taxi driver — to challenge herself!
Ms George is originally from Cicia Island in Lau and has only one son who has a family of his own.
She lives in Lami alongside her other family members. Before she became a cab driver, Ms George used to work for Courts and then she started to sew clothes for her customers.
She said since her husband's passing she wanted to be independent and do something for herself so the 63-yearold decided to take up the role of being a cab driver, even though her family persuaded her not to as it could be dangerous for women.
"My family did not want me to take this job as it is not suitable for my age and especially for my gender," she said. One of the challenges she faces daily is the tantrum that male drivers would throw at her.
"I don't understand why male drivers look down on us as women driving a taxi.
They would even call out names and make fun of us," she said.
Despite all the negativity, Ms George never allowed it to get to her. Infact she used it to motivate her to push on. "Most people think women only belong in the kitchen, I believe that if men can do it, women can do it too."
She has sometimescome across passengers that would try to trick her - especially youths, but by the help of other drivers and the experience she has over the years - she is able to handle such situations.
She says cab drivers, tend to help each other and she is fortunate they have that network and courtesy to help one another in times of need.
Being a cab driver has enabled Ms George to understand the aspects of other people’s lives.
She said if she were to pick drunk passengers she never judged them.
"I never judge anyone that I pick, instead it has allowed me to understand other people’s way of life," she said. Ms George finds strength in her daily prayers.
She prays to the Lord for protection before she starts her day and turns to God whenever she's in a difficult situation.
She has a contract with Fiji Cancer Society and would prioritise their calls.
Ms George encourages other women out there, this International Women's Day to never be afraid to do anything they desire.
She urges women not to live in fear or feel intimidated or belittled by other people’s negative vibes.
“You can do it if your heart and mind is set to it, anything is possible," she said.
Ms George shares that being in a positive environment allows women to overcome negativity and to thrive anywhere they are called to serve.