Evelyn Onalenna Direng, who lost her mother at the age of nine, overcame significant adversity to establish herself in the male-dominated taxi industry. After initially failing her matric, she persevered and passed in 2013, which helped her secure a tender from the police station that funded her first second-hand taxi purchase in 2017 for R50,000. In response to a lack of reliable transport services in her community, she founded Mogorosi Direng, which not only provides passenger transport services but also employs and trains local residents. The company emphasizes empowering women in the industry, demonstrating that they can succeed in typically male-dominated sectors.
Why It Matters
Evelyn Onalenna Direng’s story highlights the challenges faced by women in the South African taxi industry, which remains predominantly male. The establishment of her business, Mogorosi Direng, addresses a critical need for reliable transport services in her community, reflecting broader socioeconomic issues in the region. Women’s participation in various sectors, including transport, is essential in promoting gender equality and economic empowerment, particularly in areas where traditional gender roles persist. Supporting female entrepreneurs like Direng can lead to increased job opportunities and skill development within local communities.
Want More Context? 🔎
