Not just a taxi service, it’s a way of life

Uber has drivers and then it has riders. There are two sides to this story and it is time riders took a moment to stand up and say a few words.

I am one person in a growing population that has given up their cars to be Uber-only. I chose to live close to my work and I’m now saving thousands. I don’t have to pay for fixing the car or insurance. The monthly budgeted amount is much less than a monthly payment for a nice car.

I started creating a list of reasons I love Uber in Johannesburg but only a few matter here. The first is customer experience.

Many of my drivers are philosophers. In fact, I have so many deep conversations with my Uber drivers that my husband has named it Uberntu. Often we talk about life’s fulfilment. My favourite question in the service industry is: “Have you ever been fulfilled by money?” The answer has never been yes. The follow-up question is: “Have you ever been fulfilled when you know you have given someone the best possible service?” Always a resounding yes.

My next “why” for Uber is safety in numbers. I’ve heard one too many stories about women driving alone in Johannesburg and having to practise defensive driving just to get out of potentially life-threatening situations. I have a little bit of peace knowing I’m not alone in the car and often sitting next to men who are security guards. There is a benefit to knowing drivers have submitted police clearance certificates.

Last, I am absolutely thrilled that each month I get to give money to people directly as opposed to a large multinational. There is a beauty in being able to discuss someone’s financial goals and feel like you are a little part of them.

In the end I sincerely hope that the meter taxis realise that they are delivering a service to customers — whether it be a good or bad one. If they do not, then I’m afraid that after the petrol bombs and other violent antics there will be no more customers for them to service.