With YAPI, Ojewunmi inspires young female aerospace engineers

To help young female engineers seeking opportunities within the aerospace engineering, an initiative, Young Aerospace Professionals Initiative (YAPI) is leading the charge. The initiative set up by young aerospace engineer, Aanuoluwapo Ojewunmi is defying barriers and stereotypes historically limiting advancement in the field and improving the representation of women in aerospace engineering.

Through her work at YAPI, Ojewunmi is challenging the status quo, creating new opportunities for up-skilling and career advancement.
A graduate of Mechanical Engineering, Ojewunmi in 2022 founded YAPI to give proper guidance and mentorship to Nigerian aerospace engineering students, offering them better growth opportunities and helping them make better career choices: “There is a gap in the acquisition of the required industry knowledge and skills set of Nigerian aerospace engineering students.

“Through YAPI, I provide STEM focused mentorship to young Nigerian aerospace professionals offering career coaching, job placement assistance, and professional networking training. This has resulted in better access to aerospace and aviation internships and graduate trainings, knowledge building and skills development webinars, and personalised mentorship sessions to boost career success and positively impact the local aerospace workforce in Nigeria,” Ojewunmi said.

YAPI has helped to connect aerospace bodies in universities with aerospace organisations for better career orientation and exposure to hands-on learning opportunities. This has increased the engagement of engineering students in aerospace and aviation, and positioned YAPI as one of the leading aerospace mentorship programs in the country.

Ojewunmi noted that she has had to surmount a number of obstacles, working in the industry as a female aerospace engineer. In her opinion, these challenges have only helped to fuel her motivation to become a role model for young women in STEM, showing them limitless possibilities within the field, and building support systems for them to succeed.

“The representation of women in the aerospace industry is quite low and this has caused a significant gender disparity in the industry. One of the major challenges I have faced as a woman in aerospace has been overcoming stereotypes and the gender bias. In response to these challenges, I have consistently focused on building and showcasing my expertise by seeking out specialised trainings and pursuing certifications from respected organisations in Aerospace.

“By creating more visible role models and support systems, we can empower the next generation of female engineers to enter, succeed, and succeed in these fields.”

She stated that the pathway to meaningful achievements in fields like aerospace is often filled with obstacles. However, she believes that with curiosity, resilience and persistence, these challenges can serve as a springboard for success.

“The future of aerospace lies on diverse perspectives, and our young people have to recognise their unique role in shaping a more inclusive, sustainable, and advanced industry. Our young people need a solid foundation, and shouldn’t be afraid to think creatively and look beyond traditional methods—innovation often comes from those willing to challenge norms,” Ojewunmi added.