The 2025 Buscor Women’s Day celebration at Nutting House was nothing but short of extraordinary. The air was buzzing with excitement as the Women of Buscor came together dressed in their stylish t-shirt written “Women of Virtue”. You could have seen the smile, laughter, music and inspiration which filled the venue as everyone embraced this year’s theme: “Empowered Women, Empowering Women.”
It wasn’t just a celebration, but it was a day filled with meaning, history, recognition and joy. A day to celebrate the women who keep Buscor moving forward, not only on the road but also in the offices, workshops and every department that makes the company a household name in public transport.
Setting the Scene: Women of Virtue
From the moment the buses and the cars rolled in, the energy was electric. Women posed for pictures, danced to the beats, and walked with pride in their signature t-shirt boldly stating “Women of Virtue”
The message was clear: these were not just Buscor employee, but they were women of strength, women of impact and women who uplift others, you should see them in their bold lipsticks. Buscor transport services in Nelspruit ensured that the event was more than just speeches and formality; it was a celebration of womanhood. And true to that, the day was beautifully honoured with the presence of SABC, bringing attention to the incredible journey of women in the company.
A Journey of Women at Buscor: From Four Drivers to Thousands of Opportunities
Buscor’s story with women empowerment is one to be proud of. Since it was established, the company has always believed in giving opportunities to everyone and women were no exception.
Back in 2000, Buscor had only four women drivers. In an industry dominated by men, it was a bold step for women to sit behind the wheels of a bus. But Buscor leadership saw a bigger picture: women had the skills, the passion and the determination to be more than passengers of change, they could be drivers of it, literally!
To make this vison a reality, the company opened a Training Academy for Women, which was found by the dynamic Linda Nkalanga who believed in creating doors where none existed. The academy started small, but its impact was powerful. It created a platform for women to step into roles in:
- Driving – from just 4 women in 2000 to dozens today
- Administration – growing a strong backbone of skilled professionals
- Mechanics & Electricians – breaking barriers in technical trades
- Leadership roles – leading teams and shaping Buscor’s direction
One of the amazing things about the Buscor Women’s Day celebration was the introduction of the Drivers Development programme which further pushed the mission of building confidence and skills in women, ensuring that Buscor was not only transporting passengers but also moving careers forward.
Now over 1000 women have been trained and are qualified through these programmes. So, why would the company not celebrate the legacy Dr. Norah Fakuze implemented and remind the women that Linda Nkalanga’s contribution and how Buscor has become a pioneer in empowering women in Transport.
The is a reminder of our strength as women and a call to take charge. Dr Nora fakude said “You are the heartbeat of Buscor- not by just moving passengers but by moving dreams and possibilities. Buscor is more than a transport services company but a vehicle for change powered by you, women
A Buscor Women’s Day event with Purpose: Inspiring Voices
An event can never be complete without special guest. It wasn’t just music and dancing but plenty of sharing wisdom, creating conversations and inspiring Buscor women to dream bigger. The event hosted powerful speakers who shared their hearts and expertise out:
1.Thembisile Matsinhe- CEO of Themba Regional Hospital
She delivered a powerful message or talk on balancing home and work, a struggle many women know too well. She reminded women that before you can manage responsibilities outside, you must first understand yourself.
Her words were so sharp but yet comforting she said “Balancing home and work, kucala ngawe (it begins with you). You need to know who you are, what are your goals? Where are you lacking and above all do not take yourself for granted”
It was a wake-up call for many to prioritize self-care and remember that health is the foundation of success.
- Miranda Manzini – Clinical Psychologist
Mental health took centre stage when Miss Miranda spoke about stress and burnout in the workplace. She encouraged women to identify the signs early, take time to breathe, and reach out for support when needed.
Her talk reminded everyone that empowerment is not only about working hard, but also about taking care of the mind and soul.
- Mpumelelo Ngomane – Motivational Speaker & Life Coach
“Being a women means you are capable” Mpumelelo wrapped up the talk with inspiring message on being:
- B- Bold
- U- Unstoppable
- S- Sympathetic
- C- Caring
- O- Optimistic
- R- Revolutionary
Her message was clear: strength is not only about personal success but also about lifting each other up.
Empowerment in Action – More than Just Transport
From drivers to mechanics, administrators to managers, this women’s journey painted a picture of resilience, growth and unity. This event was not about the highlights of speeches only, but the stories shared by the Women of buscor themselves.
This Buscor Women’s Day celebration event serves as a reminder that Buscor is more than just a transport company. But every bus on the road tells a bigger story of empowerment, opportunities and possibilities. Every kilometre driven is proof that women are not just participants in the company’s journey but the leaders shaping the future.
Fun, Food, and Sisterhood
Of course, no Buscor Women’s Day celebration would be complete without fun! The women danced, laughed, and connected. The food was delicious, the music uplifting, and the atmosphere filled with sisterhood. Who could have asked for anything else!
Pictures were snapped at every corner – a sea of t-shirts reading “Women of Virtue” reminding everyone that this was more than just a slogan. It was an identity. It was a badge of honour.
To the Women of Buscor
To every woman in the Buscor department it can be a driver, mechanic, administrator, cleaner, electrician or manager we see you and appreciate you. This Women’s month celebration was a reminder that you are valued, special and you are celebrated.
You are not just part of the Buscor story, but you are the story.
Here’s to the Women of Virtue. Here’s to the heartbeat of Buscor. And here’s to moving not only people, but dreams, careers and possibilities
