Dreams take flight

On 28 April 2021, six learners and a teacher from a SPES charity pre-school in Okuryangava took the first flight of their lives – with FlyWestair. It was a truly unforgettable experience for all.

From the moment we stepped into the airport that morning before 7:00, we were greeted with smiles. As soon as we walked through the metal detectors we could see planes taking off and landing. Excited gasps were heard from the learners.

While the friendly staff escorted us to the airplane, one of the boys, Johnny*, whispered, “Teacher, I never knew airplanes were so big.”

Once on the plane, with everybody buckled in, a little fear kicked in, but with a quick explanation from the flight attendant, especially for the kids, about what would happen, all nerves were settled.

As the plane started “driving” (taxying), the learners and the teacher pressed their faces against the window. “We’re going faster and faster, Teacher”, Sera* yelled. The other passengers had a quick giggle.

As take-off started, the sounds of delight were unmistakable: “We’re flying, we’re flying!” Once in the air, the helpful flight attendant handed each learner a special meal, a toy and a colouring book.

Landing in Ondangwa, the learners and teacher couldn’t believe the whole trip took less than two hours. A trip which for them would usually take a whole day.

Later, back in Windhoek, the learners received another gift, and they were given a special tour through some of the hangars to learn about the different types of airplanes. There were airplanes in every colour we could think of, and everyone got to pick a favourite plane.

After this very exciting day, Samuel* declared, “Today was like all my birthdays being celebrated at the same time.”

This experience has changed the learners’ lives.

(* the learner’s names were changed for safety reasons)

Learn more about SPES at www.spescharity.com

Eloise Klynsmith, SPES