Nuriila Kenzhebaeva, who has been working as a trolleybus driver for 10 years, admits that her decision to become a driver was unexpected.
“In 1990, I graduated from school and enrolled in a course to become a secretary-typist. One day, on my way to class, I saw a woman driving a trolleybus, and it sparked my interest. After my studies, I worked for about 15 years in the textile industry. When my company closed, I was offered a position as a conductor on a trolleybus,” Nuriila recounts.
After 10 years of working as a conductor, she learned about courses for trolleybus drivers and went to study in Bishkek.
“Since 2015, I have been a trolleybus driver. Initially, it was difficult. If the poles or shoes broke down, I tried to fix them myself, but later I realized that this was the job of mechanics,” she shares.
Nuriila also recalled the reactions of passengers to her profession.
“Some passengers ask in surprise, ‘Is that you driving?’ At first, there were those who thought that such a job was not suitable for a woman. But I didn’t give up and got the job. Over time, people got used to it,” says N. Kenzhebaeva.
Barchynai Tuybaeva, now a bus driver in Osh, previously worked in a taxi service in Russia.
“While working in Russia, I was impressed by how women drive buses. When I returned to Kyrgyzstan, I decided that I also wanted to become a bus driver. I fulfilled my dream, got my license, and started working,” she shares.
According to Barchynai, driving a bus is not that difficult, but the work schedule is intense.
“Our day starts at 5:00 AM; we undergo a medical check-up and inspection by mechanics, and at 6:00 we go out on the line. In the evening, we park the bus in the garage, wash it, submit reports, and return home around 10:00–11:00 PM. Because of this, I don’t get enough sleep. Nevertheless, I enjoy the work, and it’s not hard for me,” explains B. Tuybaeva.
Barchynai also dreams of driving heavy trucks in the future.
“I want to drive a truck. I studied for this category, but I lack experience. I have plans to work in Europe,” she says.
Additionally, she talked about her family.
“I have two daughters. The younger one is in 11th grade and asks questions about her future profession. I jokingly tell her — go study to fly an airplane, that was my dream. The older daughter drives a ‘Porter’ and cars with a manual transmission very well,” added B. Tuybaeva.
