WAI Glowing Wings Chapter Inspires Future Female Aviators on Girls in Aviation Day 2024
The Women in Aviation International (WAI) Glowing Wings Chapter, Lagos, in collaboration with international partners, successfully hosted the 2024 Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja.
The event inspired scores of young female students to break stereotypes and pursue rewarding careers in aviation.
The event, which aimed to ignite the passion of the next generation of female aviators, drew students from various secondary schools, including Queens College, Yaba; Abiolu Comprehensive College, Igando; Princeton College, Surulere; and Abesan Senior High School, Ipaja.
The girls were introduced to the limitless possibilities within the aviation industry, a sector traditionally dominated by men, with hopes of bridging the gender gap.
Keynote speakers at the event included prominent female professionals in the Nigerian aviation sector.
Among them were Engr. Dr. Felicia Nnenna Agubata, Deputy General Manager of Terrestrial Services at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and Vice President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers; Kate Nnanna-Ibemgbo, Air Traffic Controller and Air Safety Inspector at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA); and Morounke Babalola, Cabin Services Manager at United Nigeria Airlines.
Their shared experiences and expertise offered the students invaluable insights into the various career paths available within the industry.
Representing Chapter President Mrs. Njoku Evelyn, Mrs. Nwaugbala Dominica delivered an inspiring welcome address. She highlighted the significance of the day, stating, “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.”
Her words resonated deeply with the students, as she added, “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.”
The event continued with an interactive question-and-answer session, where participating students showcased their knowledge of aviation by answering questions from the guest speakers.
Those who responded correctly were rewarded with WAI Glowing Wings Chapter branded notebooks.
Mentorship opportunities were also offered by Engr. Dr. Agubata, who encouraged students interested in engineering to persevere and stay determined in their career pursuits.
She said, “The future is female, but you have to first walk up to the table,” motivating the girls to remain focused and driven in achieving their goals.
The day ended on an uplifting note, as the students were treated to gift packs and a guided tour of the airport, further fuelling their aspirations to one day take to the skies as professionals in the aviation industry.
The Women in Aviation International – Glowing Wings Chapter, a non-profit organisation, remains committed to supporting and encouraging girls and young women in pursuing careers in aviation, and continues to host events like GIAD to inspire future generations.
