In the male-dominated world of car repair, female auto mechanics in Tajikistan are rewriting the rules. One remarkable example is Mavzuna Sanginova, a single mother from Buston in northern Tajikistan, who is not only challenging stereotypes but building a thriving business with support from organizations like UNDP.
A Legacy of Strength and Passion
Growing up helping her father fix cars, Mavzuna’s journey began in hardship. After losing him and going through a divorce, she was left to raise two children alone. Her turning point came when she enrolled in Professional Technical Lyceum №44 in Khujand, where she earned her auto mechanic and welding certification — a rare feat for female auto mechanics in Tajikistan.
Launching Her Workshop with UNDP Support
Mavzuna turned her qualifications into action by opening a workshop within the Lyceum. Lacking equipment, she reinvested all early earnings into tools. Her collaboration with the Lyceum also allowed her to train students, adding a layer of mentorship to her mission.
She won a Presidential Grant that helped equip her workshop and later received another grant through a UNDP-backed project targeting economic recovery and women’s empowerment. With this support, she purchased an engine elevator, air compressor, and diagnostic tools. Today, her fully functional garage offers a wide range of services and employs trained professionals.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Women Mechanics
Despite skepticism from male peers, Mavzuna earned respect through skill and perseverance. She now trains three female apprentices and aims to expand her business to create more jobs for women. Her workshop offers half-price services for female customers and prioritizes their repairs — an intentional act to foster inclusivity and encourage more women to visit and learn.
Her message is clear: “Women can excel in mechanics. We need to believe in ourselves and support one another.”
Looking Ahead: Embracing Electric Vehicles
With her business thriving, Mavzuna is now steering her team toward the future by learning about electric vehicle diagnostics and repair. By doing so, she ensures that female auto mechanics in Tajikistan remain competitive and tech-savvy in a fast-changing industry.
Mavzuna’s journey showcases how courage, training, and the right support can overcome barriers. Her success is helping reshape public perceptions and offers a model for other women aiming to enter technical fields in Tajikistan.
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