First Emirati Female Pilot has Inspired this Student for Years

When asked to interview a female role model that inspired her, NIS Grade 12 student, Raheel, did not think twice about who she wanted to interview.

“I’ve known Mrs. Omar most of my life because she is my sister’s childhood friend. I have always looked up to her because she knew what to say, and I saw her as very independent and strong. I admired how she always achieves her goals. So, the first person that came to mind when I heard about the project of interviewing women for the ‘International Women’s Day’ was Mrs. Omar. I texted her and asked if she would be willing to do an interview and she immediately said yes,” shares Raheel.

Interviewing one of your role models can often be nerve racking, but for Raheel there was no hint of nervousness.

 “The interview flowed easily. Mrs. Omar is easy to talk to as a person and before the interview, I told her to just say whatever is on her mind and not to worry about how long her answers would be. It was wonderful,” she said. “I had a lot of fun with Nouf, we laughed a bit and had an amazing time shooting the video. It was more like talking to a friend with the camera on,” Raheel said.

There were many lessons learned for Raheel, and when asked how meeting Mrs. Omar has influenced her she said:

“I have learned to never give up and always strive to achieve my goals. If someone tells me it’s impossible, I shouldn’t give up, but speak up and not let others control me and my thoughts.

I want to set my mind on my goals, study hard and one day inspire other females just like Mrs. Omar. I always admired the fact that she worked to achieve her goals no matter what it takes, even if it took years to accomplish them. I admire that and that’s why she is the one who taught me to be strong and never give up.”.

So, what are Raheel’s words of advice to her female peers?

“I would love to let all my female peers know there is always someone there to support you. Also, never let anyone tell you what to do, and if you would like to achieve something – you can. Nothing is impossible.”

 About Mrs. Omar.

Mrs. Nouf Abdulhamid Omar is the youngest Emirati female pilot in Emirates airlines, working as a co-pilot on a Boeing 777 model. She is a public speaker and an EXPO 2020 volunteer who believes that volunteering is one of the best ways to give back to the country and community that has given us so much. Ms. Omar is also running her own chocolatier business called ‘Noufy Truffy’ and inspiring young girls to take non-traditional occupations in the Middle East.