Wheels of Freedom
How a Bicycle Became My Ticket to Independence
In 1985, I arrived in Switzerland full of ambition, unaware that my biggest challenge wouldn’t be cultural differences or the German language—but a bicycle.
Back home, cycling wasn’t part of my world. My brother had a rickety bike we all fought over, but I had never mastered the skill. Fast forward to one of the most prestigious villages in Switzerland—Riehen—where I landed a job as a community nurse. The only catch? The job required me to cycle to patients’ homes.
It was assumed I wouldn’t work. As a doctor’s wife, why would I need to? My father-in-law asked, “Don’t you have enough to do? What do you want to do on the streets?” With no German, no driver’s license, and an ‘African’ education deemed questionable, staying home seemed the expected path. Maybe I would eventually realize that returning to Africa was best for everyone.
But I had other plans.
Without hesitation—at least on the outside—I declared, “Bicycle? No problem!” and marched into a store to buy a shiny new bike. My husband, now my reluctant cycling coach, held it steady as I wobbled like a newborn giraffe through Swiss traffic. I vividly remember my first day at work, nearly in tears as I braved buses and trams without bike lanes or helmets.
With every ride, I gained more than balance—I gained independence, confidence, and the ability to earn my own income. That bicycle was more than transportation; it was my path to freedom.
The Bicycle: A Legacy of Women’s Empowerment
Recently, I watched a documentary on ARTE TV about the role of bicycles in 19th-century feminism. Women worldwide had fought for the right to move freely, to work, to explore. Without realizing it, I had been part of that legacy.
Today, the impact of bicycles extends far beyond the Western world:
In Malawi, girls ride to school to reduce the risk of harassment.
In rural areas, midwives reach expectant mothers faster.
In Nairobi, delivery bikes navigate congested streets, providing essential services.
Globally, cycling offers a sustainable solution to climate change.
Why Bicycles Matter for Women Today
1. Health & Fitness
Boosts cardiovascular health and overall fitness
Reduces stress and enhances mental well-being
2. Independence & Mobility
Offers freedom of movement, especially where cars aren’t accessible
Provides an affordable transportation alternative
3. Breaking Cultural Barriers
Empowers women by challenging stereotypes
Normalizes women’s visibility in sports and outdoor activities
4. Environmental Impact
Reduces carbon emissions and traffic congestion
Promotes sustainable urban mobility
5. Community & Social Connection
Encourages women-led cycling groups
Inspires younger generations to embrace active lifestyles
Freedom on Two Wheels
Sometimes, freedom comes in unexpected forms. For me, it was two wobbly wheels, a lot of determination, and the refusal to stay in one place.
Here’s to the bicycle—then, now, and always.
