Lyft has recently announced on September 15th their new program, Women+ Connect! This is a new preference feature for women and non-binary drivers. Ride sharing has been a helpful tool for quite some time. Making traditional taxis nearly obsolete, it’s made getting around much easier. However, it hasn’t been without its uncertainties and safety concerns. Apps such as Lyft allow for sharing your ride with a friend so they can keep an eye on your GPA. There’s also plenty of features in place to ensure that drivers are accountable for where they take their riders. This still doesn’t stop uncomfortable encounters from coming up for women and non-binary drivers. After all, you’re inviting strangers into your vehicle. Safety is just as important for our drivers as well as riders. 

Lyft Women+ Connect will allow drivers to match with other women and non-binary riders, and make for a more comfortable ride. They did note in their blog post making the announcement, that this is a preference feature and not a guarantee. However, this can give drivers more control over their possible interactions. 

Why Lyft’s Women+ Connect Matters

Women+ Connect is great for a few reasons. Not only will it help incentivise more drivers, but also provide them with more confidence and security when driving and riding. 

Empowering Drivers

Women+ Connect is not just about passengers; it also empowers drivers from these groups. Lyft has taken steps to recruit and support more women, non-binary, and gender non-conforming drivers, creating a diverse and inclusive driver community. This initiative provides economic opportunities and helps bridge gender disparities within the gig economy.

A Safer Space for All

Safety has always been a top priority for Lyft, and Women+ Connect takes it to the next level. This feature allows riders to select their preferred driver’s gender when booking a ride, providing an extra layer of comfort and personalization. Passengers who feel more at ease with a female, non-binary, or gender non-conforming driver can now make that choice with confidence. Conversations with your drivers are bound to happen. While Lyft offers a “Silent Mode” for some rides, this might not always feel necessary. At least, not until you’re well into your ride at times. This feature can help promote more comfortable conversations, with the hope of having a more like-minded driver or rider.

Promoting Inclusivity

Lyft’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond this feature. Women+ Connect is part of a broader effort to create a more welcoming environment for all passengers and drivers. By fostering a sense of belonging and understanding, Lyft aims to set a new industry standard for inclusivity and safety.

And no, before anyone asks, this isn’t to exclude anyone else in the process. Nor will this foster an attitude of not picking up male passengers. It won’t affect the driver pool in any way, and if nothing else promotes more available drivers. It’s simply a feature to make the app comfortable for everyone.

How to Use Women+ Connect

Using Women+ Connect is simple and user-friendly. When booking a ride on the Lyft app, passengers can access the “Preferences” section and select their preferred driver’s gender. From there, they can enjoy a personalized and comfortable ride experience.

Lyft’s Women+ Connect feature is a game-changer in the world of ride-hailing. By prioritizing safety and inclusivity for women, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals, Lyft is setting a commendable example for the industry. This initiative not only empowers passengers but also creates economic opportunities and support for drivers from these groups. Lyft’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and welcoming environment is a step forward towards a safer and more equitable future for all.