Fly, Girl, Fly! The Inspiring Journey of Shasta Ways
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Early Life in Afghanistan
- Immigration to America
- Dreaming of Flying
- Overcoming Doubt
- Meeting Inspirational Figures
- Planning the Solo Flight
- Taking Off on the Journey
- Facing Challenges
- Inspiring Young People
- Returning Home Triumphant
Introduction
Early Life in Afghanistan
Immigration to America
Dreaming of Flying
Overcoming Doubt
Meeting Inspirational Figures
Planning the Solo Flight
Taking Off on the Journey
Facing Challenges
Inspiring Young People
Returning Home Triumphant
🛩️ Fly Girl Fly: The Inspiring Journey of Shasta Ways
In the world of aviation, there are trailblazers and pioneers who break through barriers and prove that anything is possible. One such individual is Shasta Ways, an immigrant from Afghanistan who became the world's first certified female pilot and the youngest person to make a solo flight around the world. Her incredible journey is chronicled in the book "Fly Girl Fly" by Nancy Rowe Pim with illustrations by Alexandra Bye.
Early Life in Afghanistan 🏔️
Shasta Ways was born in a refugee camp in Afghanistan, but she has no memory of the violence and turmoil that forced her family to flee their homeland. In California, she grew up as one of six girls, surrounded by the languages of their homeland - Farsi and Pashto. While she embraced her Afghan heritage at home, Shasta also learned to navigate the American culture in school.
Immigration to America ✈️
When Shasta's family decided to move to America, she embarked on a plane ride that would change her life. Little did she know that this would be the spark that ignited her passion for aviation. As she boarded the aircraft, she felt a mixture of excitement and fear. Would the plane soar like a rocket or rumble like a roller coaster? Little did she know that this flight would plant the seeds of her future ambitions.
Dreaming of Flying 🌟
Once Shasta arrived in America, she knew that she wanted to do great things. Despite doubts from others, she held onto her dream of becoming a pilot. Shasta's family encouraged her, but they also teased her for being shy and fearful. But Shasta knew that an airplane doesn't know if she's a boy or a girl. Determined to defy expectations, she dove into her studies and became a voracious learner in science and math.
Overcoming Doubt 💪
As Shasta pursued her dream, she encountered many doubters. Afghan men questioned her suitability for marriage, believing that women should not be in the cockpit of an airplane. However, Shasta remained undeterred. She applied for scholarships, took out loans, and enrolled in flight school. She became the first in her family to graduate college and held her pilot's license like a superpower.
Meeting Inspirational Figures 🤝
During her journey, Shasta crossed paths with two remarkable individuals who would further inspire her. The first was Barrington Irving, a Jamaican immigrant who became the youngest man and first black person to fly solo around the world. Barrington showed Shasta that no dream was too big to achieve. The second was Jerry Mock, the first woman to fly solo around the world. Through conversations with Jerry, Shasta learned about the challenges and triumphs of solo flight.
Planning the Solo Flight 🌍
Fuelled by her encounters with Barrington and Jerry, Shasta set her sights on her own solo flight around the world. She studied charts, weather maps, and meticulously planned her journey. She received letters and emails from children around the globe who were excited to meet her. Shasta's dream was not only to fly around the world but also to inspire young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Taking Off on the Journey 🛫
With careful planning and a heart full of determination, Shasta embarked on her historic journey. As she soared across the Atlantic Ocean, she marveled at the beauty of the world below. From puffy clouds to icebergs, she encountered awe-inspiring sights. However, the journey was not without its challenges. Shasta faced sandstorms, lightning strikes, and even monsoons that grounded her for weeks. But she persevered, fueled by the children who eagerly awaited her arrival.
Facing Challenges 🌩️
The solo flight had its moments of doubt and fear. Shasta wondered if she would ever make it, especially when she reached the halfway point - the point of no return. But she drew inspiration from the spirits of Amelia Earhart and Jerry Mock, two pioneering women who had faced their own challenges. With their encouragement, Shasta pressed on, feeling as big and powerful as the ocean below.
Inspiring Young People 💫
Throughout her journey, Shasta made it a point to meet with young people from different countries. She shared her story, inspired them to chase their dreams, and encouraged them to pursue careers in STEM fields. From little-known places like Cagliari and Christmas Island to distant lands like Egypt and Fiji, Shasta left a positive impact wherever she went. Her message was clear - challenge the limits, dream big, and never be afraid to soar.
Returning Home Triumphant 🎉
After flying nearly 25,000 nautical miles with 30 stops on five continents, Shasta landed back at the airport where it all began. Surrounded by family and friends, she kissed the ground and celebrated her remarkable achievement. Shasta Waves had made history as the first woman from Afghanistan and, at 30 years old, the youngest woman ever to fly a single-engine aircraft around the world. Her journey had not only defied expectations but also shattered stereotypes and inspired countless individuals along the way.
✨ Highlights ✨
- Shasta Ways, an immigrant from Afghanistan, became the world's first certified female pilot.
- She embarked on a solo flight around the world, making history at the age of 30.
- Facing doubt and challenges, Shasta's determination never wavered.
- She aspired to inspire young people to pursue careers in STEM fields.
- Shasta's triumphant return home marked a victory for women in aviation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What inspired Shasta Ways to become a pilot?
A: Shasta's love for aviation was sparked when she took her first plane ride after immigrating to America. The experience ignited a dream within her, and she was determined to defy expectations and become a pilot.
Q: How did Shasta overcome doubt and skepticism from others?
A: Despite facing doubts from Afghan men and teasing from her own family, Shasta remained focused on her dream. She pursued her education, studied science and math, and obtained her pilot's license. Her determination and perseverance silenced the skeptics.
Q: What was Shasta's mission during her solo flight around the world?
A: Along with her personal accomplishment of flying around the world, Shasta aimed to inspire young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. She wanted to impart the message that dreams have no limits and that anyone can achieve greatness.
Q: How did Shasta's journey impact the people she met along the way?
A: Shasta's journey left a lasting impact on the children and youth she encountered during her stops around the world. Her story of perseverance and breaking barriers inspired them to chase their own dreams and believe in the possibilities that lie ahead.
Q: What was the significance of Shasta's return home?
A: Shasta's return home marked a moment of triumph and celebration. She had not only achieved her personal dream but also become an icon for women in aviation. Her journey shattered stereotypes and showed the world that girls can soar and follow their hearts to wherever they may lead.
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