The Sheba Centre in Lagos was abuzz with energy today as the Maman Avia Initiative hosted Avi-Day 2024, a conference focused on youth empowerment and the future of aviation. With the theme “Wings Unclipped: Is There Hope for the Next Generation?”, the event brought together key figures from the aviation industry, aspiring young professionals, and advocates for social progress.
The event was kicked off by Ololade Adenekan, convener of the Maman Avia Initiative, who delivered a powerful opening address on the importance of youth in societal development. “Youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the driving force today,” she said, emphasizing the role young people play in shaping industries and governments.
The keynote speech by Chukwuerika Achums, CEO of Viva Jets, underscored the need for innovative thinking and youth inclusion in aviation. Sharing his personal journey, Achums spoke about the impact of mentorship and early opportunities, encouraging young attendees to embrace challenges and stay resilient in the face of adversity.
A panel discussion featuring industry leaders tackled the various challenges young people face in breaking into the aviation sector. Topics included the importance of education, skill development, and creating opportunities for internships and job placements. The panelists unanimously agreed that mentorship and targeted investments in youth development were key to the industry’s long-term success.
Beyond the speeches and discussions, the event featured interactive exhibitions, showcasing the latest aviation technologies and career opportunities. Aviation-themed games and raffles added excitement, while the 4th Miss Aviation Nigeria competition highlighted young women making strides in the industry.
The Maman Avia Initiative also used the event to promote its Avia Membership 360 program, which offers mentorship, training, and networking opportunities to young people. Adenekan stressed the program’s significance in providing young individuals with the tools to succeed, regardless of their background.
Sponsors such as NBJ VIP Ground Handling, ETAM AVITAT Services, and VivaJets played a crucial role in the event’s success, with each contributing resources and expertise to support the next generation. Representatives from NBJ and ETAM AVITAT emphasized their commitment to youth empowerment through training and employment in the aviation sector.
Adenekan called on corporate leaders and policymakers to step up and create more opportunities for young people, stressing that investing in youth is essential for societal and economic progress.
As the event wrapped up, Adenekan left attendees with a message of hope and encouragement: “We see you, we support you, and we want you to win.”
Avi-Day 2024 was not just a conference but a movement, igniting a sense of purpose among attendees and reinforcing the importance of empowering young people to shape the future of aviation and beyond.
