Adeola Ogunmola Sowemimo, born on October 16, 1990, in Kaduna, Nigeria, has etched her name in aviation history as the first Nigerian female pilot to fly the Boeing 787 Dreamliner for Qatar Airways. Her journey from a young girl with a passion for flying to a trailblazer in a male-dominated industry is a testament to her determination and resilience.
Growing up, Adeola faced challenges, including religious conflicts that necessitated multiple relocations between Kaduna and Ibadan. Despite these hurdles, she completed her secondary education at First Baptist Model High School in Kaduna in 2007.
She initially enrolled in a pre-degree program at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) in Oyo State but soon realized her true calling was in aviation. This led her to the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology in Zaria, where she trained from 2009 to 2010. To further hone her skills, Adeola attended Sunrise Aviation Inc. in Florida, USA, graduating in 2011.
Upon completing her training, Adeola returned to Nigeria and began her professional journey with Medview Airlines in Lagos in 2013. Starting as a First Officer on Boeing 737 aircraft, her exceptional skills and dedication led to her promotion to the Boeing 767-300ER, enabling her to conduct transatlantic flights.
In 2018, she achieved a significant milestone by joining Qatar Airways, becoming the first Nigerian woman to pilot the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This advanced aircraft, capable of speeds over 1,000 kilometers per hour, allowed her to safely transport up to 250 passengers across long-haul international routes.
Beyond her professional achievements, Adeola is also a dedicated wife and mother. She married Seun Funmi Olamilekan Sowemimo on April 22, 2017, and together they have built a loving family.
Balancing a demanding career with family responsibilities, Adeola exemplifies the possibility of achieving excellence in both personal and professional spheres.
Adeola's accomplishments have paved the way for future generations of African women in aviation. She stands alongside pioneers like Chinyere Kalu, Nigeria's first female commercial pilot, and Asli Hassan Abade, Somalia's first female aviator. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and motivation, demonstrating that with passion, perseverance, and support, barriers can be broken, and dreams can become reality.
Captain Adeola Ogunmola Sowemimo's journey is a powerful reminder that the skies are not the limit but rather the beginning for those who dare to dream and work diligently towards their goals.
Comments