Many people dream of becoming a pilot, but few can afford the expensive training and education required. Monica Precious Sibalo is one of the few who overcame the odds and achieved her goal of flying in the sky.
Monica, who is from Zambia, started working as a waitress at a local restaurant when she was 18 years old. She had always loved airplanes and wanted to be a pilot, but she did not have the money or the opportunity to pursue her passion. She worked hard and saved every penny she could, hoping to someday enroll in a flight school.
She did not give up on her dream, even when she faced challenges and discouragement from others. She said, “Some people told me that I was wasting my time and that I should just settle for what I had. They said that flying was not for women, especially not for African women. But I did not listen to them. I knew that I had a purpose and a vision, and I was determined to make it happen.”
After 12 years of working as a waitress, Monica finally had enough money to apply for a scholarship at the Ethiopian Aviation Academy, one of the best flight schools in Africa. She passed the entrance exam and the interview, and was accepted into the program. She was overjoyed and grateful for the opportunity.
She said, “It was a dream come true. I was so happy and excited to start my training. I knew it would be hard, but I was ready for it. I wanted to learn everything I could and become the best pilot I could be.”
Monica completed her training in two years, and graduated as a certified commercial pilot. She is now working for Ethiopian Airlines, flying to different destinations around the world. She said, “I love my job. It is amazing to see different places and cultures, and to meet new people. I feel like I am living my dream every day.”
Monica is also an inspiration and a role model for many young girls and women who aspire to become pilots. She said, “I want to encourage them to follow their dreams and not let anything stop them. They can do anything they set their mind to, as long as they work hard and have faith. Nothing is impossible with God.”
Monica’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and vision. She is an example of how one can achieve anything with determination and hard work, regardless of the circumstances.
Audrey Maame Esi Swatson is another shinning aviation example from Ghana. This remarkable young woman achieved her dream of becoming a commercial pilot at the age of 21. She is currently a First officer with Passion Air, a Ghanaian airline company, flying the Dash 8 Q-400 aircraft. She is also the CEO of Excel Aviation, an aviation company that aims to help young women like her pursue their careers in aviation.
Audrey’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and excellence. She was born on February 23, 1997, and attended the University of Ghana Basic School and Ghana Christian High School. She developed an interest in flying when she was only seven years old, and never gave up on her ambition. She enrolled at the Mach1 Aviation Academy in South Africa when she was 18 years old, after completing her secondary education. She had her first solo flight at age 19, and obtained her Commercial Pilot Licence at age 21. Continue reading Audrey story here.
Monica and Audrey are exceptional young ladies. We at Rising Africa wish them all the best.
