GFPA foundation was established in 2010 initially operating under Southern African Women in Aviation and Aerospace Industry (SAWIA). The organisation has evolved into an independent registered NPC and PBO, making a difference in Africa. The foundation is currently operating in Botswana, Cameroon, South Africa and in 2019 we will be expanding to Kenya and Uganda. Since 2010 we have impacted more than 100 000 youth in Africa through our various programmes.
OUR VISION
To make aviation and aerospace a viable and accessible career choice for girls and women in Africa.OUR GOALS
The annual programme conducts various exciting, stimulating, engaging and challenging educational initiatives aimed at:- Creating an awareness of STEM field with a focus on aviation and aerospace careers in Africa
- Shaping and developing aspirant aviatrix and future leaders in the STEM sphere in Africa.
- Encouraging an excellent work ethic, ambition, goal setting, drive and focus on our girls.
- Cultivating a culture of community-building and volunteerism among the youth in Africa.
2010 - 2014
- Founding of GFPA foundation under Southern African Women in Aviation and Aerospace Industry (SAWIA).
- Hosted the first-ever aviation days in both Soweto (Gauteng) and Adams College (Kwazulu-Natal).
- Hosted the first aviation and space camp in Africa.
- Participated in various outreach programmes throughout Southern Africa.
2014 - 2018
Our programmes follow a three-phase approach:
We introduce and expose STEM to both girls and boys in Primary and High schools in Africa. Our programmes include Aviation and Space Aerospace workshops, “Fly for STEM” Africa campaign, STEM workshops and STEM outreach programmes.
We increase the awareness of STEM with a focus on aviation and aerospace for high school, post-school learners and young professionals. Our programmes include an annual aviation and aerospace camp for high school girls and a Fellowship programme for Post School and young professionals. This phase also includes networking and mentorship programmes.
We prepare our girls to better understand the careers they have chosen in aviation and aerospace through our Job shadowing programmes, Job preparedness workshops and internships. We also encourage our learners to contribute to the community by opening STEM clubs in their areas.
We positively impact and change lives through our strong values of professionalism, excellence, integrity, innovation, commitment, respect and passion.