Pandemic could destroy Thembisa teen’s dream
Lesego said she would not want to miss the opportunity because of Covid-19.
A Rhodesfield Technical High School matriculant has been granted an opportunity of a lifetime but then the Covid-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill.
Lesego Mahlodi Ngoasheng (17) was invited by Delta Airlines and JA Company to attend the National Flight Academy programme from June 21-26 in Pensacola, Florida in the United States of America.
Although chances are slim that the young Thembisa resident would be able to go, she still hopes she would be able to raise the R60 000 needed to cover all outstanding costs.
The programme is for teenagers who show interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and they will have the privilege to experience an exciting adventure on board the world’s largest simulated aircraft carrier.
Aviation has always been close to Lesego’s heart.
“I have always strived to gain as much exposure as possible in this exceptional industry and am affiliated with various aviation companies and programmes. I believe in branding and exposing myself to as many opportunities as possible because the world does not owe me anything,” said Lesego.
“If I want something, I need to go out there and get it.
“I am closely associated with Women & Aviation led by Refilwe Ledwaba. I have close relations with numerous companies like Eagle Air, the South African Civil Aviation Authority and Airports Company South Africa. I’ve had the privilege of visiting various aviation companies to learn more about the industry, including a visit to the air base at Swartkop.
“I was part of a group of girls who were part of SAA’s Take A Girl Child To Work programme. I attended various workshops offered by Women in Aviation. Last year I was invited by the Gauteng Department of Education to the National Women in Aviation Summit. I was one of the top 20 teenagers who built the aircraft that was flown from Cape Town to Cairo.
“Later I was invited to Parliament to attend Minister Fikile Mbalula’s transport budget speech. I also had the privilege of attending MEC Panyaza Lesufi’s events like the National Teachers Awards and the 2018 matric results announcement.
“I have been featured on Lesedi FM, SABC 2, ENCA News, SABC News, Soweto TV and BBC World News. All these things were a direct result of hard work, commitment and being eager to learn. Being raised by a single parent and coming from an impoverished background, I have never let my background hinder me from achieving my goals.
“Instead, I use it as daily motivation to help me achieve what others deem impossible,” said Lesego.
In a statement released in March 12 by the National Flight Academy regarding Covid-19, the academy had not yet cancelled the programme amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Lesego confirmed on Tuesday that the programme was still going ahead and she hoped South Africa’s borders would open in time.
Lesego said she would not want to miss the opportunity because of Covid-19.
“The world is under strain due to the increasing infections. This pandemic is affecting countries, communities and individuals in a massive way.
“On a personal level, the continuous spread of the disease might make me miss this,” said Lesego.
For donations, contact Lesego’s mother, Mmabutshi Eunice Ngoasheng, on 076 448 4926 or at mmabutshi@gmail.com, or visit the Backabuddy website at https://www.backabuddy.co.za/lesego-mahlodi
