"My name is Mary James, I am 31 years old, and I am the first female driver for Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in South Sudan. A journey that has been immensely rewarding.
My story with MSF began two years ago in November 2021, but the seeds for this path were sown much earlier. After pausing my high school education, I took a new direction in 2015 by completing computer and driving courses with a plan to become a driver. This decision would shape my future in ways I never imagined.
In 2017, I started working as a driver for various companies and NGOs, and later found myself navigating the complexities of the Covid-19 pandemic as a driver. This experience was a turning point, leading me to join MSF, where I found my true calling. Though the journey wasn’t easy. In a job where women are often overlooked, I found myself as the only lady in interviews, competing in a field dominated by men.
But I persevered, driven by the belief that being a woman should not define my capabilities.
I cherish my job with MSF, not just for the personal fulfilment it brings, but also for the impact on my family. It’s more than a means to bring food to the table; it’s a source of happiness for everyone who depends on me.