Trailblazer
As South Africa marks Youth Month, we celebrate five remarkable young women who are blazing a trail through traditionally maledominated fields
The C-130 is one of the largest military aircraft in the South African Air Force. It's a rugged craft, able to land and take off from the roughest terrain.
For the first time in our history this tough plane is being flown by a black woman, Major Makhamnandi Zama.
At the age of just 31, Zama says flying the C-130 is all in a day's work.
“I am a professional, irrespective of my race and gender. I am here to do a job to the best of my ability.”
She says the C-130 has the largest airlift capability in the SAAF.
“It's a very special aircraft to those who fly it. It has extreme durability and workmanship.”
The country at heart
Recently, Zama had to fly the C-130 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, making her responsible for the safe arrival of the craft and crew on board. She made a solid landing.
“It was a very satisfying feeling to upgrade to C-130 command.The making history part, I don't know,” she says with a smile. “If it inspires someone else to want do this work, then that is great.”
Zama says military pilots are like all pilots, but with the major difference that they have the interests of the country's sovereignty at heart.
“Military aviators are a unique group of people, with specialised skills and high demands made of them.”
“Aviation is not easy. It requires an individual to strive to learn and want to improve their skills. I am still learning, a work in progress. Flying the C-130 is a great accomplishment.
“If this achievement also inspires other young people, that is a bonus.”
A girl from KWAMASHU
Zama was born and raised in KWAMASHU in KWAZULU-NATAL. She joined the SAAF in 2003 after matric.
After her basic military training she enrolled at the SAAF Central Flying School, and got her wings in December 2006.
The next year she was transferred to her current posting, in 41 Squadron at Waterkloof Airbase in Centurion.
In 41 Squadron, Zama has flown the Cessna Caravan, another craft designed for rough landings.
She has also piloted the Casa 212, used for VIP transport, paratrooper drop and logistical air support into other African countries.
“Flying a plane is not something you can explain in words,” Zama says.
“You just have to be there to experience it.”
Dreams come true
Flying military aircraft gives her the opportunity to make a difference, Zama says.
“The country has been experiencing a drought, and we were part of the team transporting water to the most affected areas in the country.
“Also, in situations of poverty, we are part of food-relief missions. My job can be very rewarding.”
As South Africa celebrates Youth Month, she says, she is proud to be one of the young people who have been given opportunities – thanks to the struggles of the youth of 1976.
“If people see me doing my job – and I am just a girl from KWAMASHU – this is proof that anyone can make their dreams come true, with a little hard work.”
As South Africa marks Youth Month, Public Sector Manager celebrates five remarkable young women who are blazing a trail through traditionally male-dominated fields.