Taking Flight with Simran: A Volunteer’s Aviation Story

What inspired you to start volunteering?

I was searching for more experience within the aviation industry, as I believe that to be a good pilot, you must be knowledgeable about all aspects of the aviation world. I came across a LinkedIn post by Inspiring the Future advertising their inspiring aviation campaign. Although I had never given talks before, I signed up. From my very first presentation, I knew this was one of the best decisions I’d ever made. I wanted the future generation of aviation professionals to know that they too can become pilots - everyone should always aim for the sky!

What are some of the key lessons you’ve learned through your volunteering experience?

I have learned that not everyone knows how to enter the industry, as many believe financial barriers will prevent them from getting started. Additionally, students are often unaware of the various paths available to become a pilot.

How do you think your volunteering has influenced the students and communities you’ve reached out to? By sharing my aviation journey and the steps I’ve taken to get here with students of all ages, I provide them with the insights they need to explore piloting as a career. 

What advice would you give to someone interested in applying for volunteering roles in aviation-related initiatives? I would encourage everyone to get involved, as people will appreciate your advice and tips regardless of where you are in your journey. You might even help answer questions that others are too afraid to ask!

What challenges have you faced as a volunteer, and how did you overcome them?

When I began volunteering, I wasn’t confident in my public speaking skills. However, diving straight in and giving my first in-person presentation to a room full of 16–18 year olds helped me conquer this fear. Having a clear message in mind helped prevent panic. I suggest being well-prepared and making your presentation interactive with minimal text to help manage nerves. Being prepared also helps when answering students’ questions. Speaking about something you’re highly passionate about makes things much easier, and remember - if you make a mistake, students likely won’t even notice!

In what ways has volunteering enhanced your personal and professional development in the field of aviation?

Volunteering has helped me connect with others in the industry and develop many key skills that pilots need to excel, such as:

- Time management: ensuring I complete my presentation and answer questions within the allocated time 

- Confidence: overcoming the nerves of speaking in front of a crowd 

- Ability to stay calm in stressful situations 

- Organisation: being prepared to continue even if technical issues arise, like presentation problems, by having backup plans 

What do you hope to achieve through your continued volunteering efforts, and what would you say to encourage others to join similar initiatives?

I hope to educate and inspire future generations about opportunities available in the aviation industry and show them that financial barriers shouldn’t deter them from pursuing an aviation career. To others considering similar initiatives, I would say it’s an amazing opportunity – you can be part of someone’s aviation journey while improving your own skills and becoming a better pilot!