How to Empower the Next Generation of Pilots | Refilwe Ledwaba | TED

Overview

Refilwe Ledwaba, the first Black woman helicopter pilot in South Africa and founder of Girls Fly Africa, shares her journey from cabin attendant to pilot and educator. She highlights the importance of mentorship, tailored education, and community support in empowering young women, particularly from underprivileged backgrounds, to pursue careers in aviation and STEM fields.

Notable Quotes

- We’re quick to say, 'These were my challenges,' but we’re not quick to say, 'This person removed this barrier and this person removed this one.' We need to start telling those stories. – Refilwe Ledwaba, on the importance of recognizing those who help us succeed.

- True empowerment is when they are at the top of their game, so they need to become training captains one day, you know, they need to become astronauts. – Refilwe Ledwaba, on the long-term vision for Girls Fly Africa.

- More than 90 percent of the people actually want you to succeed. It’s just that a lot of times we tend to dwell on the negatives and we don’t actually highlight the positives. – Refilwe Ledwaba, on shifting perspectives to focus on support systems.

✈️ The Journey to Becoming a Pilot

- Refilwe began her career as a cabin attendant, where pilots encouraged her to pursue flying.

- A pivotal moment came when a captain invited her to observe takeoffs and landings, sparking her passion for aviation.

- She faced significant challenges during her training, particularly with the complex helicopter maneuver of hovering.

- A supportive instructor tailored her training to her unique background, helping her overcome obstacles and excel.

👩‍✈️ Breaking Barriers as a Black Woman Pilot

- Refilwe became the first Black woman in South Africa to fly helicopters, a milestone in a male-dominated industry.

- She emphasizes the lack of representation in aviation, noting that her only early exposure to pilots was through media like Tom Cruise in Top Gun.

- Her success was made possible by a community of supporters, including family, mentors, and instructors.

🌍 Empowering the Next Generation Through Girls Fly Africa

- Girls Fly Africa addresses five key barriers for aspiring pilots: lack of information, skills development, financial constraints, networking, and continuous support.

- The program provides hands-on experiences like simulators, engine workshops, and 3D modeling to build technical skills.

- Scholarships have enabled over 100 young women to become pilots, drone operators, and flight instructors.

🚁 Representation and Role Models in Aviation

- Refilwe and her team visit rural areas in airplanes and helicopters, showing young girls that people who look like them can succeed in aviation.

- She shares the story of a young girl inspired by their visit who later became an aeronautical engineer after participating in their programs.

- By creating visible role models, Girls Fly Africa challenges societal norms about women’s roles and capabilities.

🌟 The Power of Community and Mentorship

- Refilwe highlights the importance of recognizing those who help us succeed, from mentors to family members.

- Her own journey was shaped by people who believed in her potential and went out of their way to support her.

- She now strives to pay it forward by mentoring others and fostering a culture of empowerment and collaboration.