WATCH | Young pilot urges more girls to pursue careers in aviation
Mweshe encouraged young people not to be derailed by social challenges, but to focus on opportunities that can help them.
As South Africa marks the end of Youth Month, aspiring pilots are encouraging more young women to break barriers and pursue careers in aviation, saying the industry has become more inclusive and offers opportunities across all backgrounds.
Speaking at the Fuze Aviation Airshow held at Oribi Airport in Pietermaritzburg on Saturday, aspiring commercial pilot Londeka Mweshe (22) said she hopes her journey will inspire other young women to follow their dreams despite challenges they may face.
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Mweshe, who holds a private pilot licence with a night rating and is currently working towards obtaining her commercial pilot licence, said she has always been passionate about aviation and remains focused on achieving her goal.
“I’ve always loved aviation. My background motivated me to work hard and achieve good results that brought me closer to my dream. I’m looking forward to becoming a commercial pilot, and I’m ambitious about it,” she said.
She said there is still a need for more women in the aviation sector, adding that the industry has changed significantly over the years.
“Back then, aviation was known to be for people of a certain colour, but today it is open to all races and genders. There is still space for more girls in the sector,” she said.
With Youth Month drawing to a close, Mweshe encouraged young people not to be derailed by social challenges, but to focus on opportunities that can help them achieve their ambitions.
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I want to encourage young people to stay away from social ills and focus on programmes and opportunities that will bring them closer to their dreams.
The Fuze Aviation Airshow brought together aviation professionals, students and enthusiasts to showcase opportunities within the industry and inspire the next generation of pilots.
