Sindrella Anna Ayo, a 35-year-old driver at the World Health Organization (WHO) Uganda Country office, has become a beacon of inspiration in a profession traditionally dominated by men. She has successfully carved out a space for herself, challenging stereotypes and proving that women can excel behind the wheel. Her journey is one of determination, resilience and breaking barriers.

A social worker and nurse by training, Sindrella was born and raised in Lira district, northern Uganda. She is the fifth born in a family of four girls and two boys. 

Sindrella’s 10-year journey behind the wheels was partly motivated by her husband. “He always reminded me how non-governmental organizations were keen on recruiting female drivers to advance gender equality and equity,” she says.

Beyond gender inclusion, financial security also played a role in Sindrella’s decision. Before venturing into driving, she worked as a Nursing Assistant in Lira, earning a modest monthly salary of UGX 150,000 (about USD 40). The job required long working hours and spending nights at the workplace. 

In 2014, Sindrella landed her first driving job with an international non-governmental organization in northern Uganda. Eight years later, in 2022, She joined WHO as the only female candidate among 14 applicants.

Sindrella's journey has not been one without challenges. She initially faced skepticism and societal prejudices. Many people doubted how a married woman could excel as a driver, with some questioning her husband's support. 

In the face of derogatory comments and misconceptions, Sindrella remained steadfast. She observes that the perception of female drivers as "malaya" (prostitutes) is outdated and baseless. Her unwavering commitment to her profession and her husband's trust have been instrumental in overcoming these challenges.

Sindrella and her husband have been together for nearly 15 years, weathering societal judgments and proving that mutual trust and respect can overcome any obstacle. His belief in her capabilities and the desire for a better future for their family has strengthened Sindrella. 

Balancing work, further education and family life is a challenge Sindrella handles with grace. A mother of one boy and two girls, she makes weekly trips to Lira, more than 300 km away, to check on her family and attend weekend university classes at Uganda Martyrs University, Lira campus. She is pursuing a bachelor's degree in public administration, with aspirations to transition into administration-related work.

Being a good driver today, explains Sindrella, requires more than just driving skills, “Drivers need to have additional skills in administration, logistics, and computer literacy. This makes them more marketable and professional, contributing to a more positive image of the profession.”

Sindrella's commitment to maintaining high standards of conduct, both on and off the road, has earned her respect from colleagues and passengers: “When a passenger approaches me, I always introduce myself, help with the luggage, and remind them of the safety precautions, including wearing a seat belt,” she explains. “In the unlikely event that I encounter difficult passengers; I exhibit patience and politeness.”

She adds, “The defensive driving training taught me how to interact with other road users professionally and safely. I can ably handle any terrain and road conditions with confidence.”

Among Sindrella’s proudest achievements is acquiring land and building a home with her husband. She emphasises the importance of women contributing to their families' financial stability and breaking free from traditional gender roles.

Looking ahead, Sindrella envisions a bright future. She is determined to achieve her goals, including potentially working abroad. Her dedication to work, family, and education sets a powerful example for other women aspiring to break barriers of gender stereotype.

“If there’s one thing I have learned,” she reflects, “it’s that barriers are meant to be broken.”