Go-Ahead Women: Meet Holly

From Horsepower to Horsepower – Meet Holly

As part of our Go-Ahead Women - Driving Change initiative, we’re sharing real stories from women who’ve transformed their careers by becoming bus drivers. These stories are part of our upcoming Women Recruitment Day on Saturday, 26th July, where you can meet drivers like Holly, hear their journeys, and even try out the driver’s seat yourself.

“If I can do it, you can too.” – Holly 

Before she ever took the wheel of an 18-tonne bus, Holly Ward was already commanding the roads of Dublin - behind a different kind of horsepower. For years, she guided tourists and newlyweds around the city by horse and carriage, creating unforgettable memories with every clatter of hooves. But one day, curiosity took the reins, and she found herself considering a completely new direction.

“I was scrolling through Indeed one day and saw an ad for bus drivers. I thought - ‘That actually looks fun.’ So, I applied.”

Q&A with Holly

1. What were you doing before becoming a bus driver, and what inspired the change?
“I was a horse and carriage driver in Dublin City. I did everything from historical tours to weddings and debs. It was a job full of character - but I wanted something new. I saw the Go-Ahead job posting and thought it looked fun. I followed that feeling and sent in my application.”

2. What were you feeling the day you applied?
“It was a mix of nerves and curiosity. But I think the curiosity won. I didn’t know what to expect, but after the interview I thought, ‘This might actually be exciting.’”

3. What was your biggest worry before starting – and how did that change?
“Probably just the uncertainty. I didn’t have one specific fear, but everything felt like a big leap. I had driven larger vehicles before, but a bus is another level - 18 tonnes, passengers, precise routes. It was overwhelming at first. But I learned to take my time and trust the training. That helped me relax and grow into the role.”

4. What would you say to other women who think, ‘I could never drive a big bus’?
“Go for it. Honestly. I never pictured myself as a bus driver either, but now I love it. It’s empowering, exciting, and absolutely achievable. You don’t know what you’re capable of until you give it a try.”

5. What kind of support helped you the most as a beginner?
“The instructors were brilliant - super friendly, and they never made me feel silly for asking questions. At the depot, there’s always someone you can turn to. The mentors especially were amazing. When I was stressed about learning the routes, they kept me calm and confident.”

6. How has becoming a bus driver changed your life?
“I even see buses differently now - when I’m driving my own car, I give them space! But seriously, it’s changed how I see myself. I used to struggle driving a car, and now I’m a professional bus driver. That’s a serious confidence boost.”

7. What surprised you most about the job?
“The people! Passengers are often so kind - waving, smiling, even clapping sometimes. And the support from my colleagues has been amazing. Women, men—everyone is welcoming and helpful. You’re never alone in this job.”

Want to Meet Women Like Holly?

Join us at the Go-Ahead Women Recruitment Day to hear more inspiring stories, ask questions, and explore what a career in bus driving could look like for you.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, 26th July
• Location: Go-Ahead Training Centre
• Times:
  • Morning Group: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Afternoon Group: 12:45 PM – 2:45 PM

👉 Walk-ins are welcome at both time slots, but we encourage you to register in advance here.