This podcast is the first in a series of six that will feature interviews with Palestinian women. Each woman featured in this series was photographed and interviewed. The purpose of this project is to demonstrate our (the artist’s) belief that every individual has an important role in society and this is the reason why they should be celebrated.

In April 2014, Najla’ became the first woman bus-driver in the West Bank. She has become a familiar face for many around the villages of the city of Tulkarm. Najla’ attended a bus-driving school and had to pass 12 driving tests before she received her license. On many days, she finds that the social aspect of her job is even more demanding than the actual task of driving the bus. She has received a wide range of reactions from other Palestinians, but she continues to be very proud of her job. Aside from driving a bus, Najla’ is also an outspoken resistor of the Israeli occupation.

Story and photo credit : Katy Carlson
Voice by : Isra’ Abusrour
Editing : Emma Soerensen, Mohammad Alazza