In a world where education and economic opportunity are often luxuries afforded to the few, the journey toward true empowerment remains especially elusive for young women in underserved communities. For African women, the barriers to entry in fields like technology and aviation are even more pronounced. According to the World Bank, women represent less than a third of the global tech workforce, with an even smaller percentage in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEM) fields. But Refilwe Ledwaba, South Africa’s first black female pilot and founder of Girls Fly Africa, is changing the narrative.
In this episode of Credo Voices, Refilwe’s journey unfolds as a story of resilience, courage, and a clear vision to create new pathways for girls across Africa. Growing up, aviation seemed like an impossible dream—she had never seen a pilot who looked like her, nor was it considered a viable career option. Yet, driven by a passion to go beyond, Refilwe became a trailblazer in aviation. Today, she dedicates herself to empowering girls to see aviation and STEM as viable, exciting fields where they can lead and excel.
Girls Fly Africa goes beyond traditional education by integrating STEAM with a unique focus on aviation and aerospace. Through mentorship, hands-on training, and career guidance, the program opens doors for young women to thrive in industries traditionally limited to them. This mission promotes Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 5 (Gender Equality).
“Representation holds transformative power,” says Credo Advisory CEO, Awele Okigbo. “When young women see themselves in roles they aspire to, it doesn’t just ignite their dreams—it confirms that they belong.”
Join us for this episode of Credo Voices, where Refilwe Ledwaba shares how Girls Fly Africa is reshaping possibilities and redefining what African girls can aspire to achieve. Her story speaks to rewriting narratives—not only in aviation but also in the minds of young women who now see the sky as just the beginning.
Listen to the full episode on Spotify and visit our website for more information. To learn more about Refilwe and her work, follow her on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and Facebook.
New episodes of Credo Voices are released monthly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube as part of Credo Advisory’s commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and fostering a global community of change-makers.
