The College Park Aviation Museum, in collaboration with Fig Factor Media, will host the fourth annual Latinas in Aviation Global Festival on Saturday, September 14th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This free, family-friendly event, timed to coincide with the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month, will celebrate Latina pioneers and authors in the aviation industry.
The festival promises a vibrant experience with cultural celebrations, demonstrations, children’s activities, community art projects, an author meet-and-greet session, giveaways, and live performances by Sol y Rumba Band and Sol y Mariachi.
The event will also mark the launch of “Latinas in Aviation Vol. IV” by Fig Factor Media, a series documenting the inspiring journeys of resilient women making their mark in the global aviation industry. This volume will feature 25 women, including pilots, aviation students, dispatchers, and administrators, who inspire aspiring individuals to enter the industry.
Jacqueline S. Ruiz, the creator of “Latinas in Aviation,” highlights the series’ impact, stating, “This book series has given wings to these women to explore and embrace the endless possibilities that have positively infused their lives. Their stories give readers the ‘fuel’ to leave their fears behind, watch their lives take flight, and expand their horizons.”
The event has garnered growing popularity, reflecting its positive impact. Nadine Boksmati-Fattouh, Ph.D., Museum Director at the College Park Aviation Museum, emphasizes the significance of supporting the local community, empowering youth, and providing resources for them to discover their paths. She views the festival as a vital tool for positive change.
Boksmati-Fattouh expresses humility in collaborating with these Latina aviation trailblazers, recognizing the importance of giving a voice to underrepresented communities and sharing their inspiring stories. “This allows us to connect more deeply and meaningfully with our Hispanic community,” she adds.
Adriana Ocampo Senior, one of the book’s authors from Dallas, describes her participation as “an incredible honor and profound milestone.” She underscores the festival’s significance for the Hispanic community: “The Latinas in Aviation Global Festival is important in the Hispanic community because it serves as a beacon of representation, inspiration, and empowerment. This event highlights the significant contributions of Latinas to the aviation industry, challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers. This celebration of achievement and resilience showcases role models who can inspire young Hispanics to pursue their dreams and aspirations, knowing that they too can excel in fields where they are underrepresented.”
