Defying the Odds: Sainey Trawally, the Driver Redefining His Role at ActionAid

By Alieu Jallow

In a world where drivers are often seen as background figures, quietly going about their work without much recognition, one man is challenging that perception. From Kerewan Samba Sira, Sainey Trawally, a driver with ActionAid International The Gambia (AAITG), is steadily changing the narrative. Far from being confined to the steering wheel, Sainey has become a facilitator, mentor, and community role model — showing that leadership can emerge from any position.

At ActionAid’s recently concluded Participatory Review and Reflection Process (PRRP), Sainey stood shoulder to shoulder with facilitators and programme officers, guiding discussions and sharing insights. The PRRP, an annual platform for collective learning, brings together ActionAid staff, Local Rights Programmes (LRPs), and partners to assess progress, review achievements, and discuss challenges in advancing social justice, gender equality, and poverty eradication. For Sainey, being part of this process was not just another task, it was a declaration that ability, not title, defines one’s contribution.

“Drivers are intelligent people,” he said. “We can contribute to the positive change we all want in our workplaces. Let’s build their capacity. Unfortunately, in many offices, drivers are not given such opportunities.”

Sainey’s journey began humbly in his hometown of Kerewan Samba Sira, where he attended the local primary school between 1990 and 1996 before continuing to Brikama-Ba Upper Basic School. Determined to grow beyond expectations, he pursued professional training over the years — earning a Basic First Aid Certificate from the Gambia Red Cross Society in 2016 and later completing Chauffeur and Driver Training at the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service Business Development Service in Serekunda in 2017.

When asked what keeps him motivated, Sainey’s response was simple but powerful:
“What motivates me is the willingness and enthusiasm to perform better and contribute meaningfully. I believe in purpose, recognition for achievement, opportunities for professional growth, and a supportive work environment.”

He describes his approach to leadership as rooted in trust, active listening, and leading by example. Those who know him say his humility and consistency make him a dependable part of the ActionAid team — not only as a driver but as someone who embodies the organisation’s values in daily practice.

By stepping beyond traditional limits and embracing opportunities for growth, Sainey Trawally is proving that no role is too small to inspire change. Through hard work and the courage to dream beyond boundaries, he’s showing that true impact doesn’t depend on one’s title, but on one’s mindset.

 By Alieu Jallow In a world where drivers are often seen as background figures, quietly going about their work without much recognition, one man is challenging that perception. From Kerewan Samba Sira, Sainey Trawally, a driver with ActionAid International The Gambia (AAITG), is steadily changing the narrative. Far from being confined to the steering wheel, The Fatu Network