Women at the Helm: Kenya Airways Journey of Change

Change is not a one-day event. It’s a journey one that demands commitment, resilience, and a belief that every small step taken today shapes a better tomorrow. At Kenya Airways, we believe in journeys that matter – journeys of empowerment, equality, and real community impact. For us empowering women is not a fleeting ?one-day wonder. It's about building a future where every individual, has the same shot.

While we have seen progress with 44% of our workforce female, up from 42% in 2023 and 8% of our pilots’ women, surpassing the global average of 5%.? We still thrive to lead with purpose and proudly celebrating the strength and the resilience women who have taken the bold steps in various fields.

At the helm of decision-making, 27% of our department heads and 17% of our executive leaders are women, shaping business strategy and steering the course of our company at the highest levels. By investing in educational programs that boast an impressive 85% gender parity in training, we ensure that the doors to leadership development are wide open for all.

We are also breaking barriers in the traditionally male-dominated STEM fields with women now making up 17% of our technicians. This resounding success is attributed to our proactive efforts to cultivate an inclusive environment through mentorship programs, leadership development initiatives, and social impact outreach, resonating seamlessly with the call to accelerate action.?

Our commitment extends beyond our walls reaching into the community. This is exemplified by our partnership with Wings of Hope Rescue Centre under our EmpowerHer program - an initiative that creates a powerful network of support for young women. The center gives teenage mothers a second chance at education and a brighter future.

Through a symbolic journey the 'Walk for HOPE' - from KQ HQ to Cabanas culminating at the Wings of Hope on 8th March 2025, we garnered the much-needed support, to empower these young women to rewrite their stories. We understand that lasting progress is a symphony of collaborative efforts, therefore we are committed to a sustained partnership. This includes mentorship and education support through school fee sponsorships and scholarships for the young mothers and their children.

Speaking of impactful journeys, we recently hosted the kickoff of the Sky Team’s 2025 RISE Women’s Leadership Development Program right here in Nairobi! Witnessing 22 brilliant women from across the globe come together to elevate their leadership skills was inspiring. Our CEO, Allan Kilavuka , said it best; “We're building a future where leadership is defined by skill, and vision not gender.”

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We are happy that women are driving change, enhancing operational excellence, transforming customer experience, and shaping the strategic future of the airline with their visionary leadership. We recognize that diverse leadership fosters stronger decision-making, cultivates innovation, and builds resilience - qualities that are critical in today’s dynamic aviation industry.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, we reaffirm our commitment to breaking down glass ceilings, pushing boundaries of possibilities, and ensuring that the skies ahead are navigated by diverse, empowered, and visionary leaders, illuminating the path to a brighter, more equitable future for all.

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