Women in Bus and Coach has introduced a Welsh regional group. It will significantly grow support, representation and opportunities for women in the coach, bus and community transport sectors in Wales and is chaired by Transport for Wales (TfW) Senior Project Manager Madeleine Goodson.
The Welsh group will focus on networking, mentoring, professional development and advocacy, helping to create a more diverse industry across Wales. Debut of the group was on 8 May at the TfW offices in Pontypridd.
Ms Goodson serves alongside Deputy Chair Michelle Clarke, who is Deputy Director for Wales at the Community Transport Association. Both women will lead efforts to build a strong and inclusive network that supports women at all stages of their careers.
The launch event heard from guests drawn from a range of industry leaders and experts, including Women in Bus and Coach Chair and JMW Solicitors Head of Commercial Road Transport Laura Hadzik.
Also speaking were Women in Bus and Coach directors Laurence Jenkins – who is Reading Buses Finance Director – and Gemma Lelliott, who is Director for Wales at the Community Transport Association. They were joined by Swansea Council for Voluntary Service Community Transport Development Officer Christina Christie.
Says Ms Goodson: “I am incredibly proud to take on the role of Chair for Women in Bus and Coach in Wales at such an exciting time.
“This new regional group is about creating meaningful connections, championing talent, and ensuring that women in Wales feet supported and empowered within our industry. I am looking forward to working with colleagues across the sector to build a vibrant and impactful community.”
Establishment of a Welsh regional group follows similar work in parts of England by Women in Bus and Coach, including most recently in the Midlands. Ms Hadzik has highlighted the importance of such engagement, noting that the Welsh group is “a fantastic milestone for Women in Bus and Coach.”
She continues: “Expanding our presence ensures that we can better support women across all parts of the UK, reflecting the unique opportunities and challenges within each region. Madeleine’s leadership will be instrumental in driving this forward, and I am excited to see the positive impact this group will have.”
