You Never Know Who Is Watching You Do You

As I reflect on a simple yet profound moment on a previous Delta Air Lines flight, I hope it fills you with joy and hope amidst recent aviation tragedies.

Something that I always do as I board a flight is to look at who is sitting in the Captain seat of the cockpit. This small act always brings me comfort and a sense of reassurance that is hard to put into words. It's my personal ritual and a moment of connection with the upcoming flight.

From my first flight from Cameroon to Texas as a child and now as a frequent flyer in adulthood, I have become accustomed to a consistent pattern - male pilots predominantly occupy the Captain's seat. However, in 2023, everything changed. To my surprise, a woman was seated confidently in the Captain's position. The initial shock gave way to excitement as I absorbed the significance of this moment.

My excitement grew after confirming with the flight attendants that she was indeed the Captain (an act that really speaks volume in and of itself). Witnessing a woman lead in a traditionally male-dominated industry resonated deeply with me. It's an unspoken journey of breaking barriers and defying norms that comes with battle scars and having courage.

The flight attendants must've noticed my wide grin because they offered me the chance to meet her and capture the moment with a photo. OMG! The little girl in me came out. I nodded yes vigorously.

I was overjoyed to have the opportunity to express my admiration for her trailblazing role on our upcoming journey. To top it off, I also received a flight pin commemorating the moment and serving as reminder of the profound impact of representation and visibility.

Little did the Captain know that seeing her that day encouraged me to keep pushing because you never know who is watching you do you.