Ouloassia Jennifer Yhaye, a 20-year-old Ivorian, has set a new milestone as one of the youngest female airline pilots in Africa.
Ouloassia Jennifer Yhaye, journey commenced at Morning Glory International School in Abidjan, where she completed her baccalaureate in pure mathematics, physics, and instrumentation and control in 2014, while achieving fluency in French, English, and Spanish.
Subsequently, Jennifer pursued her passion at 43 Air School (PTY) Ltd. in South Africa, a distinguished institution known for nurturing outstanding aviators. Following two intensive years of training, she obtained her commercial pilot diploma in 2016.
Upon reaching the age of 20, Jennifer returned to Ivory Coast and secured a position as a first officer for the DASH 8-Q400 aircraft at Asky within Air Côte d’Ivoire. She further enhanced her proficiency by qualifying to pilot the ATR 42/72 and B737-800 aircraft. By 2019, her accrued flight hours exceeded 800, signifying a considerable achievement for any pilot.
The Ivorian State, acknowledging her remarkable accomplishments and unwavering dedication to the aviation industry, bestowed Jennifer with the Excellence Prize.
Jennifer currently serves at ASKY AIRLINES, where she recently became a pilot for the 737MAX aircraft, contributing to the first cadre of pilots to operate this aircraft in West Africa. Despite contemplating keeping her achievement private initially, Jennifer now comprehends its broader impact.
She aspires for her narrative to inspire women, young aviators, people of color, and aspiring individuals, demonstrating that if she can actualize her aspirations, they too can pursue their dreams.