Riyadh Khalaf Instagram – Let me tell you a story about this incredible woman. 10 months ago I was unbelievably nervous whilst standing side stage about to host the closing panel discussion at at the aviation sustainability world summit. I was about to interview industry experts about something incredibly complex and technical. Imposter syndrome began to creep in, but I pushed through it. I felt out of place as a journalist and aviation fanatic. “What am I doing here? I’m not IN the industry, just obsessed with talking about it.”
One of panellists was @rachel_gardnerpoole. Her CV reads like a roadmap of female empowerment. Let’s just say she’s a BOSS in the world of aviation and sustainability having worked with government, global charities and leadership at the Civil Aviation Authority. To me she was essentially Angelina Jolie.
Rachel radiated this warm, interested and passionate energy that put me right at ease. After the event she stayed back to offer me advice on how I could navigate pilot training with ADHD. We decided to share a car back to London and on that journey I heard (part of) her life story paving the way as a woman in a male dominated industry, the roadblocks put in her way and how her dreams of working with airplanes from the age of six spurred her on.
Since that day the most beautiful friendship blossomed and Rachel feels like she’s been a lifelong friend. She’s become a role-model, guidance counsellor, confidante and someone I can chat the night away with about anything and everything. And we have multiple times!
Last night she brought me to an inspiring event at the Houses of Parliament showcasing the importance of diversity in aviation across race, gender, sexuality and neurodivergence hosted by @theairleague, an organisation helping those from minority backgrounds break into the industry with scholarships and mentoring.
I guess there’s no single point to this post other than highlighting a wonderful person working to help the planet AND people who might otherwise fly under your radar if you’re not an airplane fanatic. Rach, you’re a rockstar! ✈️🤘 | Posted on 23/Feb/2024 17:56:56
