Women come together with powerful voice to attract youth and diversity in transport sector

Three influential groups representing women in public transport gathered for the first time this week to discuss the challenges in attracting young women and girls to consider careers in the industry.

The Power of Connectivity, held in Bradford, by Women in Bus & Coach, Women in Transport and Women in Rail was addressed by Fatima Khan-Shah, West Yorkshire’s first Inclusivity Champion and an advisor to the Mayor, Tracy Brabin.

She told delegates: “Networks have been instrumental to my success. I would encourage everyone here to be proactive in using networks to support personal development, getting the right people around the table to facilitate not only your growth, but explore important conversations such as male allyship and women’s safety in transport.”

A highlight of the conference, which attracted an audience of more than 100 to The Loading Bay venue in this year’s UK City of Culture, was a thought-provoking youth panel which gave the microphone to young local voices.

Bradford-born engineering apprentice, Maya Zamir, was among the audience. She said: "It's great to have the opportunity to network with leaders and my peers too - I had a fantastic afternoon and can't wait to follow up with the new people I have met!" 

A panel discussion on entry-level roles heard how organisations can better support early career development to retain talent, recognise the views of under-represented minorities and barriers to women choosing bus, rail and other transport sectors.

Kayleigh Ingham, Chair of Women in Bus and Coach across the North, said: “Giving underrepresented groups the opportunity to connect and collaborate is essential to creating a sense of belonging for all within the transport industry.

“My ask is on senior females within the industry to elevate the juniors - use your voice to give someone else theirs, whether that be by mentoring them, or introducing them to contacts within your network. Pay it forward.”

Co-host Rachel Leech, Chair of Women in Transport Yorkshire, added: “Every speaker and attendees were testament to the real culture, social, political and economic value of transport in all its forms for the lives of women in the region.

“The event gave local women, and their allies the chance to hear from their peers about career journeys, how to progress, and celebrated female connectivity across integrated transport.”

Commenting on views expressed by younger delegates, Fatima Khan-Shah, added: “I loved learning from the youth panel – their experience is crucial to keep inspiring diverse careers for all.”

Ends