In celebration of the global Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) 2024, the Women in Aviation International (WAI) Glowing Wings Chapter, recently held a forum to inspire the next generation of female aviators to pursue careers in the industry.
Held at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos, the event drew students from various Secondary Schools, including Queens College, Yaba; Abiolu Comprehensive College, Igando; Princeton College, Surulere; and Abesan Senior High School, Ipaja.
The celebration aimed to shatter stereotypes and break barriers, showcasing the limitless possibilities available to girls in aviation.
The event featured insightful career talks by seasoned female aviation professionals in the Nigerian aviation sector, including Engr. Dr. Felicia Agubata, Deputy General Manager, Terrestrial Services at the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and Vice President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Kate Nnanna-Ibemgbo, Air Traffic Controller/Air Safety Inspector at NCAA, Morounke Babalola, Cabin Services Manager at United Nigeria Airlines.
In her welcome address, Chapter President, Mrs. Njoku Evelyn, who was ably represented by Mrs. Nwaugbala Dominica, warmly welcomed students, emphasising:
“Today is a special day; one that fills my heart with pride and hope for the future. As we gather here to celebrate Girls in Aviation Day 2024, we are not just celebrating the potential of girls and young women across Nigeria and beyond; we are reaffirming our belief that the sky holds no limits for anyone willing to dream, learn and soar.
“To all the young girls here today, I want to tell you something important: you belong in aviation. The skies are yours to explore. Airport control towers and runways are not just places you visit; they are places where you can lead.”
An engaging question and answer session followed the presentations, with students receiving WAI Glowing Wings Chapter branded notebooks for providing correct answers.
Agubata offered mentorship opportunities to students interested in engineering, accentuating the significance of perseverance and determination.
“The future is female, but you have to first walk up to the table,” she said, while encouraging them to be focused and driven.
The event ended on a high note, with the students receiving gift packs and taking a tour of the airport facility to further ignite within them dreams of becoming aviators.
The Women in Aviation International – Glowing Wings Chapter is a non-profit organisation dedicated to encouraging and supporting girls and young women in pursuing aviation careers.