On dusty roads and across long field missions in The Gambia, Isatou Bojang is often behind the wheel. But her journey to becoming a Driver with UNDP The Gambia is far more than a professional role. It is a story of courage, determination, resilience, and redefining what is possible for women in spaces where they are rarely seen.

After completing secondary education, Isatou developed an interest in computing and security. Driven by a strong sense of purpose and service, she joined The Gambia Armed Forces, beginning what would become a 15‑year military career marked by discipline and personal growth.

It was within the military that she discovered her path. Choosing to train as a Driver, she stepped into a role few women pursued at the time. Out of 15 women who began the training, many withdrew as demands intensified. Isatou did not, she persevered and went on to become the only female Driver in her army unit, a position she proudly held for six years.

Her military career also took her beyond national borders. As part of the Darfur peacekeeping mission, she operated in high-pressure and unfamiliar environments, often driving night patrols to get her colleagues to where they needed to be to effect their duties. This experience tested and reinforced her commitment and resilience. 

“At first it was intimidating being the only female driver, especially during night patrols,” she recalls. “But my passion and confidence helped me overcome my fear.”

For Isatou, driving became more than a profession, it became a platform to challenge stereotypical assumptions and prove that women can succeed in roles traditionally reserved for men.

“I knew that by stepping into this space, I could change perceptions: She says. “That gave me the passion to keep pushing to make a difference.”

After years of service in the military, she transitioned to UNDP Gambia, where she now serves as a Driver supporting field missions and programme delivery across the country. Today, she is the only female driver in the office.

Rather than seeing this as a limitation, Isatou sees it as a challenge to push herself further.

“It shows that women can stand on their own and succeed in any environment,” she reflects. “What matters is determination.”

Isatou’s role places her at the heart of UNDP’s work, supporting initiatives that impact communities nationwide. It also reflects a broader truth: development work is not only shaped in boardrooms and policy spaces, but also through the people who make it possible on the ground. Beyond her daily responsibilities, Isatou is committed to continuous growth. She dedicates time to learning, often turning to online learning platforms to build new skills and expand her knowledge.

“I always want to improve myself professionally,” she says. “Learning keeps me focused and motivated.”

Like many women who challenge traditional norms and expectations, Isatou’s journey has not been without challenges. She has faced societal scrutiny. “People would say, you are married, how can you be driving men? How can you be a Driver?’” she shares. “But I always tell them this is what I want to do, and I know my path.”

This International Women’s Month, in line with the IWD theme and SDG 5, Isatou Bojang’s journey is a clear message: equality cannot wait. It must be built, protected, and lived every day. When women break barriers, they do more than succeed, they change what is possible for others. Her journey is not just about driving vehicles. It is about driving change.