"A Dream Delayed is Not a Dream Denied": The Inspiring Journey of Kgomotso Chawane

"A Dream Delayed is Not a Dream Denied": The Inspiring Journey of Kgomotso Chawane

  • Kgomotso Chawane, a commercial pilot, overcame significant challenges, including an eight-month training pause due to COVID-19, to achieve her dream of flying
  • Inspired by Amelia Earhart and a lifelong passion for aviation, she encourages others to persevere, work hard and believe in their dreams
  • Her journey proves that her favourite quote is far from just being a quote but a life-long mantra: a dream delayed is not a dream denied
Kgomotso Chawane's inspiring path to success
Fuelled by a passion for aviation from an early age, Kgomotso Chawane emphasised the importance of perseverance, hard work and self-belief in achieving one's goals. Images: Supplied
Source: UGC

At just 21 years old, Kgomotso Chawane, a commercial pilot based in South Africa, has soared through challenges that might have grounded others.

Her journey, fuelled by a deep passion for aviation and a childhood fascination with the stars, is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief.

Kgomotso's love for the aeronautics industry began early

Her inspiration was sparked by reading about aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart and watching documentaries on aviation and NASA missions.

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“I’ve always been interested in the aeronautics industry, especially astronomy. Seeing people I grew up around becoming pilots gave me hope and made me believe that anything is possible and that I could do it too.”

That belief became a reality when she was offered an opportunity to pursue an aviation career straight after matric.

“I couldn’t believe my eyes; it is still one of my happiest memories."

The start of a beautiful journey

Kgomotso embarked on her aviation journey in February 2022, diving enthusiastically into ab initio training. Just weeks into her training, the world was struck by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite the unprecedented global crisis, she pressed on, and her perseverance paid off when, at the age of 17, she completed her first solo flight.

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Training to become a pilot was not without its challenges. Kgomotso found the exams, especially instrument rating and flight planning, particularly demanding.

She noted how her shy, introverted nature made commandability and communication difficult. Yet, these challenges became catalysts for growth.

“It wasn’t an easy one. This eventually helped me to build self-confidence and become assertive."

One of the most challenging moments in her journey was when unforeseen circumstances forced her to pause her training for eight months.

“It was one of the worst things that transpired, but it helped me acknowledge how blessed I am and how much being a pilot meant to me.”

The delays and obstacles made her dream of obtaining her licence seem nearly impossible. However, she persevered with the encouragement of those around her and a strong belief in herself.

Kgomotso encouraged others to follow their dreams

Today, as a commercial pilot, Kgomotso embodies the mantra that:

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"A dream delayed is not a dream denied.”

Her advice to others aspiring to achieve their dreams is simple yet profound:

“Pray, work hard, sacrifice, dedicate yourself, persevere and believe in yourself and your dreams. That is the key to overcoming anything that is deemed impossible. Enjoy every aspect of your training.”

Joburg woman takes a leap of faith, starts a business

Briefly News reported that a woman from Johannesburg took a chance and opened a salon with nothing but a dream worth following.

The ambitious lady started with no clients, resources or furniture, just passion for her new business venture as a nail tech.

The TikTokker admitted to having a very challenging start with nerves, but as she persevered, she started seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.

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Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Reitumetse Makwea avatar

Reitumetse Makwea (Editor) Reitumetse Makwea is a Current Affairs journalist at Briefly News. She has a National diploma, Advanced diploma and Post-graduate diploma in Journalism from the Tshwane University of Technology. She first worked as a student journalist and freelancer for Caxton's Record Noweto and later joined The Citizen News, where she worked for a little over 3 years covering politics, environmental news, business, education, and health. Reitumetse joined Briefly News in 2024. Email: reitumetse.makwea@briefly.co.za