Hanane Serkouh: Resilience and Female Strength in South Tyrol

Hanane Serkouh, a Muslim woman, 44, inherited her father's love for the profession: "There are those who offend me, in Italian and German, but most of the passengers respect my choice".

Hanane Serkouh is a name that resonates strongly in the small town of Lana, in South Tyrol, province of Bolzano. Not only because she is one of the few female bus drivers in the area, but also because she proudly wears her veil while performing her job. Despite the occasional offenses she receives, Hanane continues to drive her bus with her head held high, determined and proud.

Hanane was not born in Italy. As a child, she arrived in the beautiful country with her family, bringing with her the rich traditions and culture of Morocco, her homeland. Today, she holds dual Italian and Moroccan citizenship, a tangible symbol of her life journey between two different cultures.

To support herself, Hanane has held various jobs over the years. She has worked as a waitress, seamstress, and designer, professions that require patience, precision, and an eye for detail. But Hanane had a bigger dream, a goal that required even more determination and commitment.

She began studying to obtain the various driving license categories needed to drive a bus. With great sacrifice and determination, Hanane obtained the DE category for trailer vehicles and the CQC qualification for vehicles intended for the transport of people. These achievements were not easy to reach. Hanane had to overcome not only the technical and theoretical challenges of obtaining the licenses, but also cultural barriers and prejudices.

Yet, despite the challenges, Hanane has fulfilled her dream. Every day, she puts on her veil and sits behind the wheel of her bus, driving proudly through the streets of Lana. She is a living symbol of women's strength, determination, and the importance of cultural diversity.

Her journey has not been easy, but Hanane Serkouh is an example of how determination, pride, and passion can overcome obstacles. Her story is a testament to the importance of following one's dreams, despite the difficulties that may arise along the way.

Editorial