Vantage Foundation Partners with Grab Indonesia to Empower Women as Driver-Partners

Vantage Foundation and Grab Indonesia Join Forces

On December 19, 2024, Vantage Foundation proudly announced its collaboration with Grab Indonesia to support the Wiramudi Grab program, which aims to empower women by offering them opportunities to work flexibly as driver-partners in Indonesia.

Launched in April 2024, the Wiramudi Grab initiative addresses specific challenges faced by women in the workforce, particularly the struggle to balance rigid work schedules with family responsibilities. Through its flagship campaign, `Melaju dengan Syantiek`, the program emphasizes the message of "Progress without Compromise," reinforcing that women shouldn't have to choose between their careers, family, or education. By joining the program as Grab driver-partners, women can set their own working hours, enjoy competitive earnings, and access a variety of benefits.

Breaking Barriers

Through this partnership, Vantage Foundation has facilitated the entry of many women into the Grab platform by overcoming crucial barriers, including lack of capital and essential driving equipment. Participants have received vital resources and financial support, enabling them to embark on their journey as Grab driver-partners.

A discussion group conducted by Grab Indonesia revealed that nearly half of the women identified access to capital and equipment as significant obstacles to joining the platform. The partnership has successfully addressed these challenges, allowing women to achieve financial independence while supporting their families. Since the partnership began in November 2024, over 1,000 new women have joined the platform, with hundreds of existing drivers benefiting from additional capital, allowing them to resume driving and earn income.

Empowerment Stories

Steven Xie, Executive Director of Vantage Foundation, stated, "Through this alliance, not only are we providing the tools needed for women to succeed, but we are also creating a ripple effect of positive change." The real impact of the Wiramudi Grab program is evident through testimonials from female drivers. A single mother from Bali shared how the daily rental of Grab's electric bikes enabled her to focus on earning without worrying about vehicle costs. Similarly, a driver from Makassar expressed that being a Grab driver allowed her to support her family after her husband suffered a stroke. These stories highlight the significant impact of the program on women's empowerment and community well-being.

Commitment to Safety and Education

Grab's commitment to supporting its female driver-partners extends beyond financial assistance, as it provides comprehensive safety features to ensure their protection while driving. This includes a female passenger preference switch, allowing drivers to indicate they prefer rides with female passengers in the app. Grab also offers training, safety standard operating procedures, and vehicle service discounts through various support programs for its driver-partners.

Rivana Mezaya, Director of Digital and Sustainability at Grab Indonesia, commented, "At Grab, empowering economically marginalized communities, especially women (and people with disabilities), lies at the heart of our mission. By partnering with Vantage Foundation, we have eliminated key barriers and provided women with capital and income-generating opportunities for themselves and their families. Together, we are fostering an inclusive community where women can thrive both at home and in the workforce."

The Wiramudi Grab program is currently available in 18 cities across Indonesia, providing women with the chance to earn as Grab driver-partners. Alongside income opportunities, the program facilitates women's growth within the Grab platform.

For further information about Grab and its initiatives, visit their website or explore their YouTube channel for the `Melaju dengan Syantiek` campaign.

About Grab

Grab is a leading superapp in Southeast Asia, operating in the sectors of delivery, mobility, and digital financial services. With a presence in over 700 cities across eight countries (Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam), Grab allows millions to order food or groceries, send packages, hail taxis, pay online, and access services like loans and insurance, all through one application. Founded in 2012, Grab's mission is to elevate Southeast Asia by creating economic empowerment for all, striving for triple outcomes that balance financial returns for shareholders with positive social impact and environmental sustainability.

About Vantage Foundation

Vantage Foundation is an independent charity established in 2023 at the McLaren Technology Centre in the UK. The foundation collaborates with charities worldwide, including iREDE in Nigeria, Teach For Malaysia, and the Claret Institute in Brazil. For more information, visit www.vantage.foundation.