18 young people were introduced to aviation through a programme created by the Department for Community, Youth and Sports Services during the month of August.
On Wednesday afternoon, the youth, which included two girls and a boy as young as eight were given certificates for completing the first Montserrat Air Cadet Programme.
Programme Coordinator Jordan Taylor, who works at the John A. Osborne Airport said he was honoured to be given the responsibility to mentor the youngsters. He encouraged the parents to support their children’s interest in aviation although it can be quite costly if they chose to pursue becoming a pilot. The young people were told to be sure to do their best in Math and Physics, two essential subjects for the aviation industry. Taylor also said the sessions exposed them to various jobs within the sector other than being a pilot.
MSS student Keon Christopher called the programme remarkable, adding that they all enjoyed the session with the flight simulator. The students were given the opportunity to simulate landing at the VC Bird International Airport on Antigua using real time weather data, and aircraft instruments. He also shared with the audience that they were able to learn about fire safety, meteorology and other kinds of work.
Minister with responsibility for youth Delmaude Ryan congratulation the cadets and their parents for completing the programme. Director of the department Lyston Skerritt, thanked the John A. Osborne Airport officials, Fly Montserrat, the Fire Service, the DMCA and the parents for making the cadet course possible.
He shared that Taylor will meet with the group in about six months to see how they are doing and also to check on their progress with their school subjects. Skerritt said he wants to support this cohort to follow their dreams with mentorship and more career planning as they grow.
The successful cadets are: Amari White, D’Jhari Daley, Khaleel Wade, Phion Mulcare, Dwayne Hixson Jr., Trishawn Molyneaux, Naren Bobb, Keon Christopher, Thiana Thornhill, Keanu Kirnon, Braimah Kassim Jr., Narissa Farrell- Bramble, Ramiah White, Barrington Chalmers, Oren Bobb, Josiah Persaud, Joshua White, and Daejon White.
