Pummy Hadebe, a Zimbabwean-born bus driver in Glasgow, won the Frontline Employee of the Year honor at the UK National Transport Awards after safely delivering a passenger’s baby on board her vehicle.
Pummy Hadebe heard unusual sounds coming from the rear of her McGill’s bus during a routine route across the city. Upon investigating, she discovered a pregnant passenger travelling to the hospital with her partner. The woman was experiencing severe labour pains and was on the verge of giving birth during the transit shift.
Driver Manages Midday Crisis on Bus
The driver immediately notified McGill’s traffic control team and dialed emergency services. Paramedics would not reach the scene in time to assist with the imminent delivery. Hadebe took charge of the situation and guided the mother safely through the birth.
Providing Care Before Paramedics Arrived
Hadebe placed the infant directly on the mother’s chest once the newborn arrived. She reached into her own bag to retrieve a towel, using it to keep the newborn warm while they waited for the ambulance to arrive.
Accepting Awards at the Annual Ceremony
The driver’s composure and decisive actions drew admiration after the story circulated across social media following the incident. The British transport sector took notice of her quick thinking.
Judges presented Hadebe with the Frontline Employee of the Year title at the UK National Transport Awards. The annual ceremony celebrates individuals and organizations across the country’s public transport sector who go beyond their standard professional responsibilities in unexpected crises.