Women taxidrivers
Bi aims to establish an association to look after their welfare
SALEEMAN Bi has an aim as a taxidriver – to ensure an association is established to cater to the needs of all women taxidrivers in Fiji.
She believed that as women, they were exposed to a lot of risks when dealing with the public and it was just appropriate that a body was set up to ensure their safety and well-being.
“We need to be connected and the only way this can be done appropriately is through a recognised body,” Ms Bi said.
“Because we are females and driving taxis has great risks associated with it.
“I really hope that we all work together as females and be there for each other so that when any kind of risk arises, we know how we can tackle it.”
When the Lautoka resident decided the taxi business was just right for her, she decided to acquire other avenues that could guarantee her safety.
This was when she signed up as a human rights defender and work with professionals who always consult her when she needed assistance.
The outspoken woman said she continued to encourage fellow colleagues and urged them to start up an organisation which could formally recognise them and the work they do.
However, a number of women drivers from the four divisions have set up a group on Facebook called ‘Female Taxi Drivers in Fiji’ to interact daily.
“This group has been really helpful to many of us because we get to discuss daily on messenger about what we do.
“We even encourage each other on this platform and discuss issues that surround our work.
“The only thing left is to have a registered organisation to look after our welfare.”
We need to be connected and the only way this can be done appropriately is through a recognised body Saleeman Bi