By: Nyima Sillah
Gambian entrepreneur and pioneering female mechanic Ida Faal is encouraging young girls to break free from gender stereotypes and pursue careers in male-dominated fields (technical and vocational fields).
In an interview with this medium on Wednesday, the founder and CEO of FitaFaal Autos urged girls to believe in their abilities and take up space in industries often seen as men’s work.
“Don’t wait for permission to take up space. Whether it’s a garage, a tech lab, or a construction site, walk in like you belong because you do. The road may be tough, but your passion and resilience will carry you through,” she stressed.
Faal, who is also the founder of the ClockTvet Foundation, stated that she aims to change narratives around gender and labor while equipping girls with the tools to achieve economic independence. “What girls need most is access to technical education, mentorship, and role models. That’s why representation matters,” said Ida.
She pointed out that despite societal biases that often discourage women from pursuing careers in mechanics or engineering, women should continue to break barriers, adding that her company, (FitaFaal Autos), is The Gambia’s first online automobile solution center created by a woman.
According to her, she also launched FitaFaal Engine Oil and Additives, making it the country’s first female owned auto lubricant brand, adding that all those achievements are not personal it is to change the way young girls see the future.
“The hardest part is watching capable girls doubt themselves because society keeps telling them they don’t belong here. That’s what I want to change. I’m a mechanic at heart, and I want every girl to know she can be too,” Ida emphasized.
She further stated that empowering girls goes beyond individual mentorship, and therefore called for a coordinated support system involving government institutions, NGOs, and the private sector to create inclusive policies, fund female led startups, and ensure technical institutions are welcoming to women.
“It’s not just about helping women. It’s about building stronger, more diverse, and more innovative industries,” the CEO of FitaFaal Auto’s pointed out.
