# ETHIOPIA

Captain Amsale Gualu’s pioneering career in Ethiopian aviation is truly inspiring, especially for young women aspiring to enter male-dominated fields. Starting her aviation journey in 2000, she broke barriers by becoming Ethiopia’s first female pilot in 2010, a milestone that opened doors for many others. Her expertise ranges from flying regional aircraft like the Bombardier Q400 on challenging routes such as Addis Ababa to Gondar, to commanding wide-body jets including the Boeing 767, 777, and 787. Beyond her in-flight achievements, Captain Gualu has been a leader in promoting women’s empowerment and inclusion in aviation. In 2018, she led an all-female crew to Buenos Aires to celebrate International Women’s Day, showcasing female leadership and teamwork in a sector traditionally dominated by men. Her sustained service and excellence for over two decades underline her dedication and passion for aviation. Her story is more than just about flying planes; it illustrates the importance of perseverance, skill, and breaking societal stereotypes. For young African women and girls, Captain Gualu stands as a powerful role model proving that gender is not a barrier to achieving extraordinary success in any field. Moreover, her career highlights the development of Ethiopian Airlines as a growing global player that supports diversity and talent development. For those interested in aviation careers, Captain Gualu's journey emphasizes the significance of continuous learning, leadership, and embracing opportunities to pave the way for future generations. Her success reinforces the positive impact of representation and the value of supporting women to rise in aviation leadership positions worldwide.