The Nigeria chapter of Women in Aviation International (WAI) has called for stronger mentorship, collaboration and purposeful leadership among women in the aviation sector, drawing lessons from from aviation pioneer, Amelia Earhart, as it celebrated the 2026 International Women’s Day.
Speakers at the event urged women in the industry to embrace the theme “Give to Gain” by investing their knowledge, experience and opportunities in the next generation of aviation professionals.
In her welcome address, President of WAI Nigeria, Rejoice Ndudinachi, said the future of the aviation industry depends largely on women supporting and uplifting one another.
Drawing inspiration from Earhart, Ndudinachi noted that the legendary aviator’s daring attempt to fly around the world was not merely a personal ambition but a bold effort that helped open doors for women in a male-dominated industry.
She said Earhart’s courage created opportunities for women to believe they could undertake complex and demanding roles in aviation and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with men in the profession.
According to Ndudinachi, the principle of “lift” in aviation offers a powerful lesson for career growth and leadership.
“In aviation, an aircraft rises by generating enough lift to overcome gravity. In the same way, we rise by lifting others”, she said.
She stressed that giving knowledge builds legacy, while mentorship, support and opportunities help strengthen both individuals and the industry as a whole.
Ndudinachi therefore encouraged women to actively mentor younger professionals and aspiring girls, noting that experienced women remain the “primary architects of our collective future”.
Also speaking, Group Executive, Human Resources at the Airports Company South Africa, Lungile Langa, said the theme “Give to Gain” invites professionals to reflect on how their actions and contributions can positively influence others.
She explained that when individuals give their time, knowledge and support, they help build inclusive workplaces, stronger economies and empowered communities.
“Our greatest achievements are not measured by how much we accumulate but by what we leave behind — our legacy”, she said.
Langa added that legacy can be expressed in everyday excellence, whether in operational roles, technical work, or piloting aircraft, stressing that professionalism and dedication remain essential in every aspect of aviation.
In her presentation, Chief Executive Officer of Aerospace Education Competitions, United States, Barbara Kennedy, highlighted the growing importance of cross-cultural collaboration in shaping the future of the global aviation industry.
She said the teams that will define the future of aviation will be increasingly diverse and international, a development she noted would further enhance globalisation and innovation in the sector.
Kennedy also spoke about her organisation’s efforts to mentor and inspire younger generations through competitions and programmes designed to challenge them, build focus and stimulate interest in aerospace careers.
According to her, empowering others—especially young girls watching from the sidelines—helps create new pathways and opportunities for women to thrive in aviation.
Participants at the event reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening mentorship networks, supporting aspiring female professionals and expanding opportunities for women across various segments of the aviation industry.