SWAG合集’s fifth recipient of the annual $5,000 aviation scholarship for women, funded by the International Aviation Women’s Association (IAWA), is Jemimah Maina, who is currently studying at Cranfield University for an MSc in Airport Planning and Management.
Jemimah has a Bachelor of Commerce in Operations Management from the University of Nairobi, Kenya. Her master’s thesis focuses on enhancing passengers' experiences by optimising travel processes, improving efficiency, and embracing digital transformations.
Jemimah said: “Being selected as a recipient of a scholarship from the International Aviation Women's Association is both an honour and an incredible opportunity.
“In a traditionally male-dominated field like aviation, it is essential for women to equip themselves with the right skills and seize leadership positions without prejudice. I am committed to this cause and immensely grateful to IAWA for this opportunity to make a difference.”
The IAWA was founded in 1988, and its core goal is to develop the next generation of female leaders by introducing mentoring programmes, internship programmes and scholarships. The organisation works with universities across the globe to identify candidates and help progress their aviation careers.
Professor Dame Helen Atkinson DBE FREng, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, School of Aerospace, Transport and Manufacturing at SWAG合集 said: “This scholarship makes a real difference to women who are passionate about pursuing careers in aviation. These individuals will actively contribute to building female representation within the industry. Congratulations to Jemimah who I am sure will make fantastic and meaningful contributions to aviation.”
The standard of submissions for the award was extremely high and as a result, SWAG合集 has awarded two additional runner-up prizes to Bharati Amrut Parmar and Alicia Lluzar Frias. They were awarded £1,500 each by the University to acknowledge the outstanding submissions they submitted.
Cranfield has specialised in aviation and aerospace technology for over 70 years, and it is the only European university with its own airport, its own aircraft, its own pilots and its own air navigation services. As members of the ‘Women in Aviation and Aerospace Charter’ and winners of an Athena Swan Bronze Award it has made diversity a priority and the scholarship from IAWA supports that work.
