Shifting Gears: Taxshe's Journey of Women Empowerment

Founder Ms Vandana Suri

From the suffrage struggle of the 1800s to the ongoing problem of equal rights today, women have long taken up this fight. Though widespread sexual misbehaviour has been brought to light by protests and rallies, violence against women persists globally, highlighting social injustices such as the #MeToo movement. Gender disparity persists despite significant developments like the ability to vote. Barriers to progress for women include unequal pay and underrepresentation. Thus, systemic improvements are necessary to achieve real gender equality and eradicate violence against women.

The data in India presents a grim image. Over 4 lakh offences against women were registered in 2019 alone, according to the National Crime Records Bureau. The attack on a woman in an Uber vehicle in December 2014 was one especially horrifying episode that deeply affected the nation. Former investment banker Vandana Suri was extremely concerned by this episode. "Maybe this wouldn't have happened if women were behind the wheel," she thought to herself. Thus, in January 2015, Taxshe was founded to redefine women's safety and empowerment on the roads.

Taxshe was an answer to a pressing societal crisis, not just a commercial venture. To enable women to drive more confidently and securely, Taxshe was founded as a platform where "women enable women to drive." Together with her co-founder Sushil Shroff, Suri established the foundation for a project that aims to change the taxi industry's conventional setting. Beyond just giving women rides, their mission was to debunk stereotypes, provide them the chance to become professional drivers and help them recover their rightful position on the roads.

It was difficult to convince women to become professional drivers in a culture that was firmly established with gender stereotypes. In a society where gender stereotypes are pervasive, encouraging women to become drivers was like pushing them into unknown waters. Driving was regarded as a "blue-collar job," and many women were not familiar with vehicles, so it was difficult to persuade them that it was a good career choice. It took more than just driving instruction to uproot these social norms. Taxshe developed a thorough training programme that takes seven or eight months to complete. This course aims to teach not only the essentials of driving but also road etiquette, self-assurance, and perseverance in the face of many challenges.

Mrs Kalayselvi (extreme left) and Founder Vandana Suri (second from right) along with a few members of Taxshe

Mrs. Kalayselvi, a single mother navigating the tumultuous waves of life, is a prime example of Taxshe's transformative impact. Her journey with Taxshe began after losing her job during the pandemic. In the four years since, she has transformed from an introvert into a confident driver, not only supporting her children but also shouldering the responsibilities of her elderly parents. Her pride as a cab driver extends beyond personal fulfilment; it represents her newfound independence, her ability to support her family, and her challenge to societal norms.

Mrs Kalayselvi's daily commute through Bangalore's bustling streets is more than just manoeuvring through traffic; it's a battle against gender prejudice and impatience. Her experiences mirror those of many female drivers. She endures impatience from other drivers but finds solace in moments when strangers recognize and commend her skills. She embodies the empowerment that Taxshe has fostered. "It's not just about reaching a destination; it's about the journey and the freedom it brings."

While overcoming obstacles, Taxshe's transformative journey inadvertently became a catalyst for change, aligning its mission with SDGs such as SDG 5 for Gender Equality, SDG 8 for Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 10 for Reduced Inequality, and SDG 16.2 to End Violence Against Children. Taxshe has received recognition from the World Bank for its contributions to the SDGs and the Her 2019 competition.

Taxshe stands as a beacon of hope in the tapestry of social norms, illuminating the path to empowerment. Women are yet again proving their mettle by putting their foot into the transport industry be it in cab or truck driving or even operating trains and metros. With each turn of the wheel, Taxshe provides avenues and routes for women to assert their identities, voices, and power on the roads they traverse. Taxshe's unwavering dedication is rewriting the narrative of women in the taxi industry.

With each turn of the wheel, Taxshe provides avenues and routes for women to assert their identities, voices, and power on the roads they traverse. 

A proud Taxshe Driver