All her life, Sibongile Sambo dreamed of becoming a flight attendant. The admission standards seemed within her reach. Yet, against all odds, her admission was denied. A dream shattered. But not for long, because, small cause, big effect.
This rejection gave her the motivation to found her own airline: SRS Aviation. The company that takes you to new heights. The only African air carrier headed by a woman.
When she learned she couldn’t be a flight attendant, she didn’t waste time complaining. She decided to start her own business. To do this, she sold her car, and her mother helped her by offering to use her retirement pension. It was time to start her new business. The coal miner’s faith, no doubt. But her hopes were rewarded.
[1]The South African government issued its operating license in 2004. Its beginnings were difficult, but Sibongile remains persistent.
It now operates in partnership with MCC Aviation, which opens the door to using their aircraft fleet and the various ground services operated by its partner.
Its airline specializes primarily in business flights. But that’s not all, as she operates cargo flights, helicopter transport, and even animal counting flights in game reserves. These are original niche services in the world of African air transport.
Perhaps another way of looking at things?
Today, Sibongile Sambo manages air charters all over the world. From $1,000 flights for tourists visiting South Africa to $200,000 flights to the United States or Germany for VIPs.
She has broken the monopoly of an industry that, before her arrival on the market, was exclusively dominated by men.
Yet her speech is not motivated by any desire for revenge, no pretext of feminist activism. She is simply a fighter, a professional. And that’s more than enough for her.
Since then, she has helped three women become pilots. She plans to do even better. Inspired by Ethiopian Airlines, which now operates with all-female crews, she aims to become the first South African airline to fly with an all-female crew. For her, this is more than a challenge or a motivation. It’s a passion.
Her ambition is clearly expressed: she wants to expand her airline’s services throughout Africa. She knows that Africa will grow economically. She wants to grow with Africa.
A striking example of the ingenuity and strong motivation of African women.