This week, AeroTime announced the creation of Aviation Champions, a new recognition program for aviation professionals, for their dedication to the industry and for their ongoing efforts to support, promote, encourage and inspire people across our industry. 

Today, we are delighted to announce the third person to be recognized as an Aviation Champion - pilot and business founder Amanda Kandawire, who AeroTime first spoke to for International Pilot’s Day in 2021. Amanda has used the extra time she had during the pandemic to give back to the industry and invest in holistic and long-term education for the next generation. 

Amanda Kandawire, AeroTime Aviation Champion

Amanda saw opportunities when she was made redundant from her role as a senior first officer at Emirates during the pandemic. This passionate aviator from South Africa took the chance to devote herself to not one, but two new businesses during the COVID-19 crisis.   

Lockdowns gave her the chance to create more work for her first venture, Layover Art, where Amanda sells art prints, canvas prints, art curated products and handmade earrings.  

The second venture is Fly Like a Girl, which introduces young girls to the world of aviation and STEM careers through the medium of educational toys. 

“The pandemic came with a lot of loss for the whole world. But I think it may have also been a reset that was desperately needed,” commented Amanda philosophically in her interview with AeroTime. 

Appointing Amanda as Aviation Champion, Richard Stephenson, Chief Executive and Editor in Chief of AeroTime, said: “Faced with redundancy during the pandemic, Amanda chose to use her time for the benefit of the next generation of female pilots, making educational toys to show young girls what is possible. I have no doubt we will be seeing fruit in years to come from the seeds she has sown during this challenging period.” 

AeroTime looks forward to working with Amanda and the other Aviation Champions. Stay tuned for the next Aviation Champion announcement. 

Congratulations Amanda!   

You can see Amanda’s full story here:

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Emirates pilot Amanda embraces her creative side and opens two businesses
Amanda Kandawire, a First Officer at Emirates, was made redundant during the pandemic. She adapted to the professional changes and established her own business.