Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Bicycle mechanic enjoys getting her hands dirty
INSTEAD of going for a manicure or wearing make-up, Nuriya Rustin prefers to get her hands and face full of grease, to help cyclists get back on the road.
Rustin performs her trade with passion, dedication and attention to detail, as a bicycle mechanic at her workshop in Lansdowne.
The mother of two has already raised a few eyebrows, especially when she needs to buy spares and bicycle parts at cycle shops.
Although a male-dominated environment, she does not let that get in her way.
Rustin says owners from cycle shops are surprised when she walks in.
“As a female bicycle mechanic, I would like to encourage women to give it a go as we can do anything we set our minds to. I currently have one woman working for me.
“I’d love to have more female workers if my business prospers one day. We should also recognise the achievements of women during Women’s Month,” she said.
She fixes about two bicycles a day, 10 a week and about 40 a month.
The common problems she faces are seized or creaking bottom brackets, seized forks, buckled wheels and snapped spokes.
Rustin says being a bicycle mechanic can get messy, however, she loves everything about it.
“Cyclists should regularly service their bikes to ensure they run efficiently and that there are no worn or damaged components.
“I enjoy the fact that it’s physical work. I enjoy working with my hands. Sitting behind a desk just isn’t for me. I need to get up and do some hard physical labour,” she says.
She was inspired by her father, Ismail Cassiem, who introduced her to the industry, as he was an avid bicycle enthusiast and had a lot of passion for what he did.
She says he taught her a lot about bicycles, along with the Bicycling Empowerment Network, whose mission is to provide opportunities through the use of a bicycle.
“They played a huge role as they taught me the basics in fixing bicycles. I still don’t know everything but I’m eager to learn,” she says.
Besides fixing bicycles, Rustin likes sewing, hiking, painting, the open air, and the sights and sounds of the outdoors.
She says that’s why her workshop is outside her front yard.
“Having a goal is what’s keeping me motivated. I want to expand my business one day,” she adds.
Her uncle, Zaahir Hassen, describes her as a warm-hearted person, who always gives back to the community and never forgets where she comes from. “I’m so happy she gets to do what she loves and I’m glad to be a part of it. Working for her has been a pleasure,” he says.