International Women's Day

This International Women’s Day, a day that celebrates women’s achievements and encourages everyone to challenge gender stereotypes and bias, we are celebrating the dedicated and inspirational women that make our organisation what it is.

At Brighton & Hove Buses we spoke to women from across the business to hear about what drew them to their roles, what they enjoy most about working in the transport industry, and what they’d say to other women thinking of joining.

Here, you can read some of their stories:

Emilia Brown – Bus Driver

Depot: Conway Street

“I didn’t have any intention to become a bus driver until I saw the advertisement on the back of a bus shortly after getting back from travelling. I needed a job, so I thought I’d go for it and I’m so glad I did.

“The best part about my job is getting to see my regulars and have a quick chinwag and laugh. I love that I meet so many new people and different faces throughout my day and no day is the same. Also driving past colleagues and giving them a big old wave always puts a smile on our faces. It is a fun, stress free job! But my favourite part - which I didn’t expect is always getting to see beautiful sunrises and sunsets all over Brighton!

“I would say to all women who are considering becoming bus drivers is to go for it, don’t be nervous! I remember I was really apprehensive when I applied thinking I would be so nervous to learn and complete the driving test, but everyone is so friendly. You are all in the same boat learning. While you are learning you realise it’s not scary at all, especially when all the instructors are so friendly and put you at ease.”

Theresa Hammond – Bus Driver

Depot: Whitehawk

“I became a bus driver in 2010, I was looking for a change of career. I love driving and have always worked with the public.

“The best part is interaction with my passengers, even making new friends. Getting them safely from A to B. Not having to pick clothes to wear as a full, smart uniform is provided. I work with a great team in my workplace.

“I’d say to any woman, give it a go, I did with no regrets. You’ll get full training, it’s easy once you master the size. If I can do it, so can you.”

Megan Strange – Marketing Officer (formerly Customer Services and I.T.)

Depot: Conway Street

“I love that there is a lot of variety in my role and every day is different. I get to be creative and produce materials for campaigns, but I also get to analyse the data on how the campaigns have performed too. My brother began as a bus driver and progressed in his career at Brighton & Hove Buses. This inspired me to work for the company whilst I was studying at university which lead to me progressing in my career within the bus industry too.

“I started as a bus attendant for the open top buses on route 77 (from Brighton city centre to Devil’s Dyke in the South Downs). I then joined Customer Services, followed by IT. I'm now based in Marketing. One of my career highlights is seeing the work I have created out and about in the city. I was very excited when I spotted one of the posters I had designed at the bus stop outside of my house.

“To any women thinking of joining the bus industry I say: Go for it! I have been working within the bus industry for over 8 years and there are so many opportunities for career advancement."