Theleka Munyu joined the UAV Industries Operations team in October 2019, as a drone pilot student of their 4IRSkills Programme and intern for the Operations division, working her way up to the role of “Dispatch”. Having recently completed her practical ‘Sign Out’ test, she is now officially a holder of a Remote Pilot License and we are extremely proud to call her a qualified commercial drone pilot! This is a position that she holds alongside her new role as Operations Manager, where she is responsible for all operational requirements for the flight department, working closely with the Chief Pilot and Drone Maintenance team to ensure teams are well briefed and supported for all projects.
Currently pursuing a part time Bachelor of Commerce degree, Theleka first became interested in drone technology when she worked at the ‘Africa Tech Week’ conference, which focused predominantly on robotics and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
“My previous job required me to do a lot of research on 4IR, which is when I knew that the events industry was becoming slowly redundant. I decided then and there that I wanted to pursue a career that hadn’t existed 10 years ago! If robots were going to take over, then I wanted to be in a position where I would operate one. That is when I came across drones and the rest is history.”
Stakeholders within the male-dominated industries of aviation and technology still have a long way to go to attract and retain female talent. However, Braam Botha, Operations Executive at UAV Industries says they are committed to being the change that is needed within the South African drone scene and are always look to encourage young women at high school and university age to consider a career within the drone industry.
“We are delighted to have someone like Theleka, regardless of her gender, as part of our dream team. She has shown huge initiative since joining us at the end of last year and has quickly become a valuable asset to our growing company.
Head of Training, Mervin Mc Keith, adds:
“We congratulate Theleka on reaching this first aviation milestone and we sincerely hope that she will go on to obtain further ratings and certifications, flying under UAV Industries banner.”