World Youth Skills Day is a momentous occasion that celebrates the importance of equipping young individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in an ever-evolving world. On this special day, JA Africa is shining the spotlight on two exceptional girls, Naa Norley Norteye and Laila Oloriegbe, who were awarded scholarships by Delta Air Lines to attend the National Flight Academy (NFA) in Pensacola, FL, USA. Embark on a journey with them as they explore the exciting world of aviation and gain valuable skills during this immersive learning adventure.
Meet Laila Oloriegbe, a bright and enthusiastic grade 10 student from Lagos State Heritage Global Academy in Nigeria. Inspired by her passion for STEM and a desire to make a difference, Leila was motivated to apply for the NFA scholarship. Her dedication and commitment to learning have led her on an extraordinary path toward achieving her dreams.
Naa Norley Norteye, a grade 10 student at Akosombo International School in Ghana, is passionate about aeronautics engineering and dreams to gain hands-on experience in the construction of aircrafts. Naa is fascinated by the way people fly planes. She is inspired by the military’s discipline and how it will affect her future career. This was Naa’s motivation for applying for the NFA scholarship.
The NFA is renowned for providing students in grades 7-11 with an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through an immersive learning program. During their 6-day stay aboard the virtual aircraft carrier AMBITION, Naa and Leila were exposed to cutting-edge technology and engaged in a range of activities. They worked collaboratively to plan humanitarian missions, honed their flying skills in state-of-the-art flight simulators, and received mission briefings in fully electronic-ready rooms. This comprehensive experience allowed them to develop vital 21st-century skills such as leadership, communication, and critical thinking.
With their thirst for knowledge and dedication to personal growth, both Naa and Leila took up the habit of journaling. Documenting their experiences, insights, and lessons learned, they aim to create a comprehensive record of their time at the NFA. By capturing their thoughts and reflections, they will preserve their memories while also gaining a deeper understanding of the invaluable skills they have acquired.
The NFA experience not only fosters technical skills but also ignites a passion for aviation and a desire to contribute to nation-building. For Naa and Leila, this program was a stepping stone towards shaping their future careers in the engineering sector. They yearn for hands-on experiences in aerospace engineering and seek to broaden their knowledge of aviation. By interacting with like-minded individuals and sharing experiences, they hope to expand their horizons and gain new insights into the industry.
We salute the remarkable achievements of Naa and Leila, who have seized the opportunity to participate in the NFA Camp by Delta Air Lines. Their journey represents the empowerment of young girls in the field of aviation, fostering their growth as leaders, innovators, and critical thinkers. Thank you Delta Air Lines for supporting STEM education for African girls.
