Celebrating IWD: Meet Melissa Tararo

This International Women’s Day, we’re shining a light on some of the wonderful women we’re lucky enough to call Kinetic team members. Meet Melissa Tararo, who works out of Kinetic's Coomera depot on Australia's Gold Coast.

When Melissa Tararo arrived in Australia from New Zealand three years ago, she’d built her career in customer service in New Zealand and never imagined herself behind the wheel of a bus. Encouraged by her family, she decided to take a leap of faith and “give it a go,” joining our team as a casual school bus driver.

And as Melissa describes in her own words, she hasn’t looked back!

“Starting out wasn’t without its challenges," said Melissa.

"Learning unfamiliar routes overcoming moments of self-doubt, and questioning myself on whether I was capable, knowledgeable and brave enough to do the job well.

"The responsibility of transporting children safely isn’t something I take lightly – and that trust in me became my motivation to grow, stay focused and give her absolute best."

Melissa says her career as a bus driver helped her rebuild her confidence and rediscover her strengths.

"The simple everyday interactions – offering a smile, a friendly greeting or a safe journey – reminded me of the impact I can have on others," she said.

"It has allowed my wings to grow back and given me purpose again – not just in my work life but as a woman, a wife, a sister and a mum."

Just seven months into her role, Melissa’s dedication was recognised when awarded Rookie of the Year – an honour she didn’t yet know existed! Knowing that her teammates and leaders had seen her work ethic and more importantly, who she is as a person, meant the world to her.

Since joining as a casual driver, Melissa has since become a valued member of the South-east Queensland Driver Training team where she continues to grow and helps others do the same. She is proud to work for Kinetic and sees firsthand the real pathways for progression, especially for women stepping into industries they may never have imagined themselves.

Melissa summarises by saying that her philosophy on this years’ IWD26 theme, Give to Gain, is simple:

“When you give your time, energy and heart – when you show up with authenticity and kindness – you gain growth, confidence and opportunities you never expected," she said.

"My entire journey is proof that giving your best, even in small everyday moments, can open doors you didn’t even know existed.”