Driving change: Kinetic recognised in Diversity Awards NZ™
pictured: Marjorie Oman (front row, right) with Women Up Front recruits in Hamilton
Kinetic’s “Women Up Front – Trainee Bus Driver” program has been named a finalist in the Breaking Barriers category at the 2026 Diversity Awards NZ™, recognising its work to help more women build careers in the transport industry.
The program, a fully paid, four-week training initiative, equips trainees with the skills and licensing needed to begin a career as a bus driver, while also opening pathways into supervisory and leadership roles.
Since its launch in New Zealand in October 2024, Kinetic has welcomed over 215 new female drivers to depots nationwide. This is the equivalent of welcoming 12 new drivers each month – roughly three per week.
By supporting trainees to obtain their Class 2 license with a passenger endorsement and providing a learning environment designed to build confidence and skills, the training initiative is helping women enter a sector historically dominated by men.
“Women Up Front is about removing barriers and giving women the confidence to succeed in a career they might never have considered,” says Nicky Harrison, Director of People, Culture & Safety at Kinetic.
“We’re already seeing alumna step into mentoring, supervisory and operational roles. That’s exactly what Women Up Front was designed to do – open doors for women to take on new challenges within the transport sector, and we couldn’t be prouder of what they’re achieving.”
Operations Supervisor Marjorie Oman began her journey with Kinetic as part of a Women Up Front cohort in January 2025. Marjorie’s natural leadership qualities and ability to connect with others saw her quickly progress to a Mentor Driver role before moving into her current position at the end of last year.
“I had no experience driving large vehicles when I applied, which meant I had no idea what to expect,” says Marjorie. “I was quite nervous on the first day, but being part of a group of women all at the start of the same journey made it feel less intimidating.”
Since joining Kinetic, Marjorie has discovered opportunities she hadn’t expected, progressing from a driver to an operational leadership role in less than a year.
“I didn’t realise how many opportunities were available at the start,” she says. “With support and encouragement from the management team to take on new challenges, I’ve developed the skills needed to thrive in my new role.”
Looking back on her journey, Marjorie hopes more women will see the opportunities available through programmes like Women Up Front.
“Go for it and give it a try,” she says. “If you’re willing to learn and give it your best, you might surprise yourself with what you’re capable of.”
Kinetic’s broader commitment to diversity is reflected in its adoption of the Champions of Change Coalition’s 40:40:20 vision, aiming for a workforce of 40% women, 40% men, and 20% people of any or no specific gender by 2030.
About the Diversity Awards NZ™
The Diversity Awards NZ™ recognise individuals, teams, and organisations fostering inclusive workplaces across Aotearoa New Zealand. The 2026 awards, delivered under the Te Uru Tāngata Centre for Workplace Inclusion, celebrate initiatives driving meaningful organisational change. Winners will be announced on Tuesday, 6 May in Auckland during the Whiria Ngā Kaha Workplace Inclusion Aotearoa conference.