Driving Forward with Pride and Purpose

As Stagecoach prepares to roll into Portsmouth Pride on 7th June, we’re proud to celebrate the incredible individuals who represent our values of inclusion, authenticity, and community every single day.

One of those individuals is Emma Levers, a driver with over seven years of experience behind the wheel—and four of those spent with the Stagecoach family.

Since joining Stagecoach, Emma has felt not just welcomed but truly embraced. “It’s been amazing,” she says. “Stagecoach have never judged me for who I am. The support has been phenomenal.”

Emma is a male-to-female transgender woman, and her story is one of courage, honesty, and finding peace in being her true self. “From about the age of four or five, I knew I was different,” she shares. It’s now been eight years since she transitioned—a life-changing decision that brought both challenges and triumphs.

“There were some struggles at first, but the support I’ve had overall—from my loved ones and from colleagues—has been incredible. I’ve been allowed to be myself.”

Emma believes Pride is a chance to celebrate how far the world has come—and to encourage others to live openly. “It’s time for everyone to be themselves,” she says. “It’s one community, a fantastic community. Pride is a joyous occasion, and the world is becoming more accepting. That’s something to celebrate.”

For Emma, being open has been a key part of her journey. “If you’re open about it, people understand it more. I’ve always put myself out there to be part of the team—just be yourself, but in a good way.”

Her message to others—whether thinking about joining Stagecoach or navigating their own path—is simple but powerful: “If they’re happy, then that’s all that matters.”

As we head into Portsmouth Pride, Emma’s story is a reminder that being seen and supported can make all the difference—and that everyone deserves the chance to thrive as their authentic self.

Join us at Portsmouth Pride on 7th June, where the Stagecoach Pride Bus will be on site with games, activities, and plenty of celebration. Come say hello—we’d love to see you there!