Interview with Lyudmila Plaschenko: “She Drives helped me prove to myself that age is a convention”

Lyudmila went through all the stages of bus driving training, passed the exams, received a category “D” driver’s license and is now working as a driver at the Kyivpastrans enterprise.

– How did you get into the She Drives project?

I was looking for a job. I really like driving, being behind the wheel of a car. I accidentally came across an ad on the project’s social networks. At first I thought it was a fake. I went in, monitored it, talked to my son, and got advice. My son said to try to submit an application, and I got into the project. I submitted an application and forgot about it. I had already found a job and at that moment I received a letter that I had been accepted into the project. I sent my documents – and here I am.

– What motivated me to submit an application?

Firstly, I was interested in the project itself and the educational opportunities. Secondly, I really don’t like sitting at home. Thirdly, health allows (I got my vision checked and adapted after the coronavirus), I have energy, and I need to use it somewhere. When I passed, it was a wow emotion for me, and a huge surprise for my friends. I am grateful that this project appeared. I would not have been able to pull this training at my own expense.

– What stage of training are you at now?

The theory was difficult. We studied in the evening, and I perceive information better in the morning, but I kept up with this pace. I prepared both with a teacher and on my own – I watched videos, read manuals. In the end, I passed the theoretical exam. In the process, I had support from representatives of the driving school, so everything turned out great.

It was difficult to master the dimensions of the bus. The first time behind the wheel was crazy excitement, but then I got myself together and went. The first practical lesson was adrenaline-fueled, but then you turn on all your driving skills, concentrate on the dimensions and listen to the instructor. He motivated me, told me not to worry, to be observant and explained the nuances.

During the practical exam, I was very worried and thought that I would not pass. But thanks to the representatives of the driving school - they were with me all the time, supported me until the start of the exam, which I successfully passed on the first attempt.

- What was your personal victory?

I updated my knowledge. Practice is one thing, but during the theory you feel completely different. For me, it was “wow” that I was able to do it, learn and answer everything correctly the first time. And prove to myself that age is just a convention.

- What are your plans for employment?

I am already looking for vacancies. I looked at websites in Kyiv, but haven’t found a relevant one yet, because they often require a sole proprietorship and 2 years of bus driving experience. It’s important to me that there is official employment. I plan to work either in Kyiv – I see how public transport is lacking – or on international flights.

– What could be the most difficult thing about this job?

Finding a friendly team that can support and help. I’m not afraid of interacting with people, I easily find a common language with passengers. I never respond rudely to rudeness, I react calmly.

– What inspires you in this profession?

You drive around the city and see people, nature, the world around you. I like it. There were two options – to go back to being a seamstress or to try yourself as a bus driver. I chose the second without hesitation. Driving for me is always about positive emotions.

– Do you have a principle that helps you move forward and can inspire other women not to be afraid of change?

Listen to the opinions of others, but always have your own. Try and draw conclusions based on experience. Constantly improve your skills and do not doubt your own abilities.

The project "Expanding the professional potential of women in the field of transportation" is being implemented by the NGO Foundation for Institutional Development on the initiative of the Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine, in partnership with UN Women and under the financial support from the governments of France, Poland and Sweden.