Refilwe Ledwaba: How to empower the next generation of pilots

How to empower the next generation of pilots

What does it take to fly a plane? For TED Fellow Refilwe Ledwaba, it took perseverance and drive — and an instructor who took the time to teach to her learning style. Today, as founder of Girls Fly Africa, Ledwaba is empowering the next generation of pilots, particularly young women, with the engineering skills, professional networks and hands-on experience they need to take flight into a sky-high career.

Breaking into aviation requires more than skill; it takes guidance and a community that believes in potential. One instructor’s willingness to adapt teaching methods let a struggling student soar past her peers. By focusing on context, mentorship, and continuous support, entire generations of young people—especially women from rural areas—find their place in the cockpit. More than 200,000 young people have engaged with hands-on programs that build both skills and confidence.

Empowering Pilots Means Rethinking Barriers And Celebrating Support

Real change happens when support systems adapt to individual needs and challenge old stereotypes. A pilot who struggled with a crucial maneuver succeeded only when an instructor tailored the training, leading her to excel beyond her peers. Through programs reaching over half a million young people, hands-on learning and visible role models are opening aviation to those once excluded. Empowerment deepens when communities celebrate those who help others climb higher.

Empowerment Soars When Barriers Become Stepping Stones

Empowering future pilots starts with recognizing and supporting individual learning journeys. One student, once on the verge of failing hover training, soared after an instructor adapted his approach to her unique background. Programs that offer role models, skills training, scholarships, and lasting support open doors for young women, especially from rural areas, to enter aviation. Celebrating the people who help along the way builds a culture where more can achieve sky-high dreams.