Vidhya Jattan, a determined grandmother from Labasa, Fiji, is breaking barriers in a predominantly male profession as a bus driver for Sunflower Airlines. Her role, welcoming passengers at the Adi Laisa Terminal at Waiqele Airport, has garnered significant attention in the local community, showcasing her courage and commitment to challenging gender stereotypes.
At 47, Vidhya faces skepticism from some male passengers who grapple with the idea of a woman excelling in driving. However, she remains resolute. “It’s just to town and back, no problem,” she states, though she does recognize the difficulties of Maneuvering through Labasa’s hectic traffic, where adherence to road rules is often overlooked. Her ability to navigate this chaos only adds to her impressive credentials.
Beyond her professional duties, Vidhya skillfully manages her household, caring for her 11-month-old grandson, Jaisheed, while her daughters attend school. This balancing act means her driving schedule is limited to two trips daily, after which she quickly returns home to fulfill her responsibilities.
Encouraged by her husband, Ram Jattan, Vidhya embraced this driving role after he transitioned from his job at the Fiji Electricity Authority. Ram takes pride in her achievements, particularly noting that she passed her heavy public service vehicle driving test on her first try, illustrating her dedication to mastering the skill.
Vidhya’s experience driving a seven-tonne bus owned by Bulileka Transport reflects her resilience and capability. While she has been asked if she would consider becoming Fiji’s first full-time female bus driver, she expresses contentment with her current part-time driving and full-time homemaking responsibilities.
Her journey serves as an inspiring example to many, demonstrating that women can excel in all fields, regardless of societal norms. Vidhya Jattan is paving the way for future generations, proving that with determination and skill, traditional barriers can be overcome.