Women Driving Change: Female Integration in Guatemala’s Electric Public Transport
We promote gender inclusion in Guatemala City’s public transport: 65% of Tu Bus drivers are women. The project also opened roles in mechanics and operations, led by a woman, creating career paths and transforming the system.
About this Project
When Guatemala City launched its electric bus system, we faced a challenge: a shortage of drivers, as many had left for better-paying jobs abroad after the pandemic.
In a country where women rarely drive professionally, and some needed their husbands’ permission to apply, we saw a chance to break barriers. Inspired by inclusive models in Bogota and Santiago, we trained and empowered women to become drivers.
The first group sparked a wave of courage, and soon more women joined. Today, 65% of our drivers are women, steering not just buses, but a new path of equality, opportunity, and transformation.
Key Highlights
Our project stands out for turning a challenge into a breakthrough for gender inclusion. Faced with a driver shortage, we chose to train and empower women in a field where they were rarely seen especially in Guatemala, where cultural machismo often discouraged them, and some even needed their husbands’ permission to apply.
Inspired by inclusive models in Bogota and Santiago, we offered professional training, financial incentives, and social support. What began as a logistical solution became a movement: today, 65% of our drivers are women, leading not just electric buses, but a powerful shift toward equality and transformation.
Facts & Figures
- The launch of Guatemala City’s first electric bus system marked a transformative. Beyond introducing clean technology, inclusion and accessibility.
- 24 electric buses: first fleet in Guatemala, reducing emissions.
- 60% savings in maintenance costs.
- 100% low-floor buses: full accessibility.
- $0.60 fare per ride: affordable for the population.
- 65% female drivers.
- 12% increase in harassment reports: greater trust in female-led service.
- 60% of users prefer e buses: early modal shift indicators.
