The Women in Bus and Coach “Spotlight On” initiative shines a light on the incredible contributions of women in all roles across the bus, coach, and community transport sector. From professional drivers and engineers to human resources experts and CEO’s, ‘Spotlight On’ will highlight the diverse talents and achievements of women in this dynamic industry.
Today we focus on and find out about:
Zoi Dendrami
Professional Bus Driver – Walworth depot
Health & Wellbeing Champion
Transport UK London Bus
What is your role?
I am a PCV Bus Driver and also a Health & Wellbeing Champion
How did you get to where you are today?
I always loved driving. My main job was being a journalist, in my country, in Greece, but I always had a passion with driving. So, I got first a license for a truck, then for a lorry and last for a bus. When the economic crisis started in Greece, I wanted to do something more. Not only to support my family and pay my bills, but I needed new experiences. Something to reborn me. I started searching for a job outside of my country. That’s when I found out that I can become a bus driver in London. I didn’t need to think about it much. I took the chance and never regretted it.
Did you experience any challenges getting to where you are today?
Yes, it wasn’t easy. I had to leave the comfort of my house, my children, my parents, my friends, and come to a new country where I didn’t know where would I live, how my job would be, how would my colleagues treat me. I didn’t even know if I would be able to pass my training. Driving on the opposite side of the road, was one of the biggest challenges I had.
But I made it 😌
If so, how did you overcome then?
Thank God, I met very nice, kind, and caring people in my company. My trainers and my colleagues were very helpful. I never felt alone. Step by step I became a professional London Bus driver. A dream came true.
What do you like about the sector?
I really love driving as I said before, but mostly I love the connection with my customers. Saying good morning, or good afternoon to them, makes them smile and feel acknowledged. Also, the connection I have with my colleagues is unbelievable. We talk, we share food sometimes, we tease each other and laugh 😃
With many of them, we go out for a coffee or lunch. Beautiful people.
What does a typical day look like?
Well, this job is really demanding, so I don’t have much time for personal life, except for my rest days. I work mixed rota, so after work, or before (depends on what time I start work), I cook, eat, wash my clothes, have a shower, and that’s about it.
Fortunately, I can have a chat with my colleagues on my break time, and that gives me some energy to continue my job.
What advice would you give to women thinking about a career in the bus and coach sector?
First of all, they might have heard that driving a bus is very hard. That it’s a job mostly for men. Well, it’s not! And for me, driving a bus has become easier for me than driving my car.
So, if they love driving, love people, and are open to challenges, then they should go for it. Providing a vital everyday service up and down London makes you feel special.
Thank you for sharing your story, Zoi, you are truly an inspiration!
To find out more about who Zoi works for, and career opportunities visit: Abellio London
Transport UK London Bus are founder corporate members of Women in Bus and Coach.
