DISCOVER HOW WOMEN ARE RESHAPING JORDAN’S MOTORCYCLE COMMUNITY, BREAKING STEREOTYPES, AND EMBRACING EMPOWERMENT. EXPLORE THE INSPIRING INITIATIVES DRIVING CHANGE AND PROMOTING INCLUSIVITY IN THIS THRILLING JOURNEY!

By Maria Weldali  Source: Bidna Iyak  Courtesy: IMOTORBIKE

In recent years, a notable shift has been observed in the motorcycling landscape, with an increasing number of women unlocking new dimensions in the riding experience. Women motorcyclists are challenging stereotypes and reshaping the perception of motorcycles as exclusively masculine vehicles. The rise in female motorcyclists is particularly evident in Jordan, where congested roads and continuous traffic have spurred a surge in motorcycle ownership among women.

CHANGING PERCEPTIONS AND BREAKING STEREOTYPES

Traditionally considered a male-dominated domain, motorcycling is undergoing a transformative change in Jordan. Women are increasingly seizing the opportunity to take the rider’s seat. Salam Hamarshah, a female motorcyclist, notes that the surge in female motorcyclists is a response to the challenges posed by congested roads and traffic. Despite motorcycles being commonly viewed as ‘masculine vehicles,’ women in Jordan are making significant strides in the motorsports space.

Noor Shabsough estimates that motorcycle ownership among women in Jordan is now no less than 10 per cent. She emphasizes that while there are enduring stereotypes about the motorcycle culture, the overall image is evolving as more women challenge these stereotypes by actively participating in the riding community.

PROMOTING SAFETY AND INCLUSIVITY

The growing interest in motorcycling among women is not only reshaping perceptions. It is also fostering a sense of community and safety awareness. Initiatives like “Bidna Iyak” are playing a crucial role in promoting road safety awareness. It encourages responsible driving practices, particularly concerning motorcyclists.

Mohammad Zarka, founder of the “Bidna Iyak” initiative, highlights the increasing involvement of women as riders and community members. He notes that more women are expressing interest in riding courses, contributing to a positive shift in the overall motorcycling culture. The Bidna Iyak initiative actively advocates for road safety. It aims to create an environment where all road users, including motorcyclists, are respected and protected.

EMPOWERING WOMEN: A SUB-INITIATIVE

In late January, the Bidna Iyaki Qaweyeh, a sub-initiative of Bidna Iyak, will organize an event with a focus on empowering women in the fields of media and business. Aptly named “We want you strong” in English, the initiative aims to celebrate and empower women. It recognizes their growing influence in traditionally male-dominated spaces.

As women continue to carve their path in the world of motorcycling, the shift in perceptions and the rise in female riders in Jordan is a testament to the changing dynamics of the motorcycling community. Beyond breaking stereotypes, initiatives like Bidna Iyak are actively contributing to road safety awareness. It also fosters inclusivity in the ever-evolving world of motorcycling. The empowerment of women in this field not only reshapes the narrative. It also adds a new and dynamic dimension to the diverse community of riders.

By Maria Weldali  Source: Bidna Iyak  Courtesy: IMOTORBIKE