Glain Kimer Naneu grew up in Kajiado West Constituency, Keekonyokie Ward. She is a licensed private pilot.
The 21-year-old is studying Bachelor of Civil Aviation Management in East African School of Aviation and has also started studying for Commercial Pilots License in Flite Star Academy. She is probably going to become the first Maasai woman to fly a commercial airplane.
Obegi Malack got a chance to sit down for an interview with the brilliant lady. Here is how it went down:
Where did you start your schooling: I studied in Magadi Soda Academy and later joined Karura Adventist School. I completed my secondary education in 2017 and joined East African School of Aviation in 2018.
Why did you study flying: I like planes, I was interested in finding out how they are operated that is why I joined the aviation industry.
How many hours have you piloted: I have been able to fly for 74 hours now. I flew for 63 hours and was awarded Private Pilots License by Nairobi Flight Training and am now studying for my Commercial Pilots License in Flite Star Academy. To be awarded the commercial license, you have to complete 200 flight hours. I have already done11 hours.
How can you describe your course: The course is interesting since I learn new things every day. People say that flying is scaring but for me, studying flying is the best thing that happened to me. My parents accepted it and have been motivating me but some of my friends still think otherwise, they say they are frightened to be on air that is why we have few ladies studying the flying course.
How did you feel the first time you flew: It was exciting, it was a dream come true. I was not scared of the highs, I just loved it.
Does your family have a background in piloting: My father used to work at the airport but he only took me there once during my birthday. My mother works with Magadi Soda.
What is one of your exciting moments: When I flew to Magadi to greet my mother, she was so happy to see me. Everyone was shocked that a young girl my age can fly an airplane and many were inspired.
Are flying courses expensive: It is very expensive, I come from a humble background and my family has held two fundraisings. We pay Shs 17,000 to fly for an hour and I am expected to fly for more than 200 hours. I will be happy if I find someone to sponsor my education.
Do you mentor young people: Yes, I have been able to open a Community Based Organization, OMOM Girls Group, where I mentor young girls and direct them to choose courses that will help them in the future. I also urge parents to allow their children to study what they are good at. I also advocate against Gender Based Violence. We fight to end FGM and early marriage in Maasai land and the country at large. I also joined the Young Aviation Club of Africa (YACA) where I was mentored by Mercy Makau who is behind the course am doing.
YACA is a premier African Aviation Club for young people with the purpose of nurturing and developing Africa’s next generation of aviation professionals through mentorship, creating interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). I have also partnered with She Leads programme where we mentor girls and boys and encourage girls who get pregnant to ensure they complete school,
Where do you want to see yourself in the next five years: Flying airbus is my dream and am sure five years from now, I will be among the pilots in international flights. I am also looking forward to open beads (shanga) business, I want to connect my community to the world through the shanga business.
What are the lessons you have learned: The most important lesson I have learned is anyone can be anything she wants when she/he is disciplined.
What are your hobbies: My hobbies are swimming, watching basketball and volunteering in community services.
