The image of a man carrying packages on a two-wheeler probably comes to mind when you think of logistics and delivery professionals. Sunita Prajapati's tale serves as motivation for all women who desire to support their families and work flexibly in India, where women are still frequently considered inferiors in tiny industries and mobility is a field dominated by men.
The first image that springs to mind when you think about logistics and delivery supervisors is a man delivering packages while riding a two-wheeler. Sunita Prajapati, female riders, is breaking this stereotype. She is a living example of how, at the age of 30, even something as basic as driving a car and providing for your family out of your salary can give you a sense of freedom and independence.
Sunita Prajapati Challenges Traditional Norms
Prajapati is a one-woman army with an ordinary tale, but one that is full of vigour and her capacity to attack a challenge, making her a true trailblazer. Prajapati is a trailblazer who is challenging traditional norms in the logistics industry while also sustaining a family of seven. She is motivated by the need to maintain her independence while also providing for her family and ensuring that her children receive a quality education.
Mother of two children, Sunita says that her family was supportive throughout her endeavours. "I asked my father to let me do what I wanted," says Sunita. Adding, "If I falter at any point, I would stop." Sunita, however, did not stop herself from working day in and out. A homemaker like herself, she takes pride in working and simultaneously taking care of her children. "My family is also quite happy."
Recalling the support of a friend who taught her how to ride a bike, Sunita opens up to SheThePeople about her fulfilling experiences. Shortly after, her husband who bought them a scooter also partook in giving Sunita some lessons on bike riding. As much as she enjoys to manoeuvre the two-wheeler, Sunita also says that it is important for any woman to drive on their own without depending on anyone to do it for them. "As women, we have been taught to repress our wishes to be free. Riding a bike helps me unlock the repression," she says.
Aware of the surroundings today, she further adds that circumstances demand women to work and stay out for long hours to make ends meet. She is glad that her work helps her be at par with her male counterparts and that her willingness to be out there shedding sweat and blood gives her a sense of purpose as it makes her feel equal. "A lot of my neighbours thought I would not be able to make it but now that I am here, I think that I have proved them wrong."
Sunita feels that education is more important for women and girls than anything else. When women are on their own, they can look after themselves as well as others. She says. "Women can also feel responsible and assume the role of a breadwinner in the family. They can tend to their children and aged parents. Both the partners in a marriage should have an equal share in their division of labour," she adds.
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When asked about how others react to her when they see her wearing a helmet, she recalls herself being an impetus for several other women who have not come out as free as her. "They have come up to me and asked me to share any job openings with them." Sunita does not find any flaw in her job as she cannot get enough of it. "When women succeed in something, people come after them in support. Once they have a minor setback, the entire world turns against them, it is only sad," she says. But setbacks do not stop her from bettering herself and moving on with what she does and what makes sense to her. "The only way for us is forward, despite the indifference and negativity."