A Necessity, Not a Luxury

With three young children at home and a spouse experiencing vision loss, acquiring driving skills has become essential rather than optional. "Transportation falls on her shoulders now—medical appointments, school runs, everything," explains Najma Haq.

For Chicago's recent arrivals, particularly those balancing limited financial resources and unfamiliar surroundings, obtaining a driver's license represents a critical milestone. The challenge intensifies for women whose husbands maintain full-time employment schedules. Professional legal consultation becomes important when navigating traffic regulations.

According to legal experts in Chicago, understanding road safety extends beyond driving—it includes respecting all road users, particularly vulnerable populations.

Najma Haq established Asia Driving School on Devon Avenue alongside her brother Akif Syed in 1991. The venture began when a neighbor sought instruction but preferred learning from a female teacher.

Three decades later, the school employs five instructors—three women and two men—and maintains a fleet of seven vehicles.

While the program welcomes all students, maintaining female instructors remains essential for serving conservative Muslim women in the community.

"Cultural considerations matter significantly," notes Kiran Haq. "Many students feel more at ease with instructors who share their background and understand their specific needs."

Bridging Cultural Gaps

Kiran Haq observes that few driving schools in the area offer female instructors specifically for conservative Muslim communities—the field remains predominantly male.

In certain conservative Muslim cultures, women avoid being alone with unrelated men. Some countries, including Saudi Arabia historically, have restricted women's access to driver's licenses.

Economic constraints also shape the school's approach. Najma Haq implements flexible fee structures based on students' financial circumstances.

"Currently, seven in ten students receive reduced or waived fees," she explains, noting that she often accepts prayers of gratitude instead of payment.

When families relocate to Chicago and require mobility for employment or family responsibilities, relying solely on public transit becomes impractical—both time-consuming and expensive, according to Najma Haq.

Census data from 2010 indicates nearly 60 percent of Chicago residents commute by automobile, whether alone or carpooling. Driving extends far beyond work commutes, however. Learning vehicle customization techniques benefits those using cars commercially. Understanding accident statistics promotes safer driving habits.

"Without transportation access, even simple errands become monumental challenges—pediatric appointments for vaccinations, grocery shopping—husbands can't always be available," Najma Haq emphasizes.

Linguistic diversity among staff proves crucial since many students lack English proficiency—a complication compounded by English-only driving examinations.

Throughout un Nissa's lesson, Najma Haq alternates between English and Hindi, ensuring complete comprehension of instructions.

Beyond Language Barriers

Not every student faces language obstacles, however.

Ahmedi Dee, 24, arrived from India just over twelve months ago and communicates fluently in English. When she secured a civil engineering position in Lincolnshire recently, public transportation became unfeasible.

She connected with Kiran Haq through a friend's recommendation, praising her teaching abilities.

While Dee didn't specifically require a female instructor, she appreciates the advantage: "Having a woman teacher adds comfort. When concepts don't click immediately, she patiently explains them differently."

The school also serves male students.

Udey Kanike, another student of Kiran Haq's, relocated from Hyderabad, India approximately a year ago. His suburban Downer's Grove residence made driving skills essential.

"Weekend isolation became routine—my friends live downtown, so I stayed home alone," he recalls. Following his successful license examination last Saturday, he anticipates purchasing a vehicle to reconnect with his social circle and participate in community events.

Connection Through Diversity

Working with students from diverse backgrounds energizes Kiran Haq, who values interfaith interactions.

"Sitting beside an Indian woman practicing a different faith creates meaningful moments," the devoted Muslim reflects. "During stressful situations, she calls upon her deity, I call upon mine. It's beautiful how we respect each other's traditions. These experiences create genuine bonds."

Returning to the facility parking lot after un Nissa's second practice session, Najma Haq determines today's lesson has concluded. They'll schedule additional sessions before the examination.

"Perhaps not immediately, but within a few more lessons, she'll definitely be prepared."

Source reference: https://itsaboutjustice.law/personal-injury-attorney/