Breaking barriers and empowering women in aviation

Inhlanyelo Hub launched its second cohort of the Drone Divas Programme, a groundbreaking initiative empowering women and promoting gender diversity in the aviation and drone sectors. This exciting event, held at the Manhattan Hotel in Pretoria on August the 5^th, 2024, saw the introduction of nearly 20 dynamic women from Unisa alumni, particularly those with a background in STEM fields, ready to soar into new heights of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Prof Zethu Nkosi gives the welcoming address

In the welcoming address made by Professor Zethu Nkosi, a member of the Inhlanyelo Hub Non-Profit Company (NPC) board, she highlighted that the event is set to celebrate not only the launch of the second cohort of the Inhlanyelo Hub Drone Divas Programme but also the success of the first cohort. Launched in September 2023, the programme introduces young women to the world of drones, offering information, training, and economic participation opportunities. It caters to a diverse group, including mostly unemployed young women and some with experience in the aviation industry, fostering a collaborative environment with opportunities for internships, co-working, professional engagement, and solidarity.

From left: Guest speaker and Head of Training at the Ntsu Drone Academy Mbalenhle Mphage, the CEO of Inhlanyelo Hub, Prof Raphael Mpofu and Inhlanyelo Hub Drone Divas Programme Cohort 1 qualified drone pilot Neliswa Songca

Programme partnerships

Key partners, Ntsu Aviation Solutions and African Beyond 4IR, play a crucial role in the programme’s development. The holistic approach includes components such as drone pilot training, drone technology development (coding), drone industry optimisation, and drone manufacturing. This initiative addresses financial barriers and offers comprehensive training, providing women with the tools to thrive in the industry. Nkosi emphasised that drone flying training and the remote pilot license issued by the Civil Aviation Authority are just the first steps. The project aims to establish women-owned and operated small businesses and service providers supported by skilled mentors, business advisors, and coaches.  

Programme overview

Participants will receive comprehensive drone piloting, coding, technology development, and manufacturing training. This holistic approach aims to equip women with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the growing drone economy. The programme also aligns with Unisa’s Catalytic Research Niche Areas and the Sustainable Development Goals, promoting gender equality and economic empowerment. Professor Annemarie Davis, the project leader, introduced the drone divas, highlighting their diverse backgrounds and aspirations.

Inhlanyelo Hub Project Leader, Prof Annemarie Davis

Professor Raphael Mpofu, interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Inhlanyelo Hub emphasised the importance of female participation in these cutting-edge fields. “Our mission is to empower women by providing them with the skills and opportunities necessary to thrive in the drone and aviation industries,” he remarked. “We are thrilled to continue this journey with our new cohort of Drone Divas, who are poised to make significant contributions to the future of aviation technology in Africa,” Mpofu added. Among the speakers there was Mbalenhle Mphage, Head of Training at the Ntsu Drone Academy, who shared her experiences flying drones, and Niliswa Songca, a drone pilot from the first cohort, who encouraged the new Drone Divas to support and uplift one another, emphasising sisterhood, empathy, and mutual understanding.

Celebrating the launch of Cohort 2 Drone Divas with new members (the Divas, guest speaker, and valued partners: Ntsu Aviation Solution and AB4IR).

Sam Twala, CEO of Ntsu Aviation, highlighted the importance of passion and teamwork in enhancing the use of drones, while Ingrid Mhlophe, CEO of Africa Beyond 4IR (AB4IR), also addressed the divas, highlighting the origins of AB4IR and offered words of encouragement. Mhlophe emphasised the underrepresentation of women in the ICT space and encouraged the divas to lean on each other, fostering a solid support network as they advance in their new career journey. 

Celebrating the launch of Cohort 2 Drone Divas with new members (the Divas, guest speaker, and valued partners: Ntsu Aviation Solution and AB4IR).

Inhlanyelo Hub stands as a catalyst for change, fostering opportunities for women and driving innovation in the aviation industry. Through its dedicated efforts and robust partnerships, it continues to break barriers and create pathways for women to excel in fields traditionally dominated by men. With a strong focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and community development, this initiative transforms lives and sets a precedent for future generations. As the new cohort of Drone Divas takes flight, they carry with them the hopes, aspirations, and potential to reshape the landscape of aviation in Africa and beyond.

*By Seyabonga Thipe, Intern Journalist, Department of Institutional Advancement

**Photography by Shooheima Champion, Multimedia Centre