AviateHER Bursary

Introduction
Elevate Aviation, in collaboration with the Black Aviation Professionals Network (BAPN), proudly presents the AviateHER Bursary. This bursary is dedicated to supporting Black women pursuing careers in aviation, providing financial assistance to help remove barriers and create opportunities for success in the industry.

Purpose of the Bursary
Elevate Aviation is committed to breaking down barriers and fostering diversity within the aviation industry by providing career opportunities, mentorship, and financial support to underrepresented groups. Our goal is to create a more inclusive aviation sector where everyone has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background.

In partnership with BAPN, an organization dedicated to advancing Black professionals in aviation, we are introducing this bursary to provide financial assistance to Black women entering the aviation industry in fields outside of piloting. This collaboration reflects our shared mission of increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion in aviation by supporting individuals who are historically underrepresented in the sector.

Bursary Criteria
The selection process will prioritize applicants who demonstrate the following:

Eligibility:
○ Black women embarking on a career in aviation, outside of piloting.

Aviation Career Aspiration:
○ Applicants must demonstrate a clear commitment to pursuing a career in aviation, showcasing how this bursary will support their goals and impact their journey.

Advocacy and Inclusivity:
○ Individuals who exemplify a commitment to fostering inclusivity and creating positive change within the aviation industry, particularly for the Black community.

Passion for Growth:
○ Applicants must highlight their dedication to lifelong learning and personal development, reflecting the spirit of resilience and adaptability.

Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following materials to be considered for the bursary:

Personal Essay:
○ Share your journey as a member of the Black community pursuing a career in aviation.
○ Highlight your passion for aviation and how it reflects the values celebrated by the bursary, including lifelong learning, inclusivity, and community mentorship.
○ Include a brief explanation of your financial circumstances and how this bursary will support your journey in a career in aviation.
○ Maximum of 1000 words.

Reference Letter:
○ Provide a letter of recommendation from a mentor, instructor, or colleague that speaks to your character, dedication, and/or potential to contribute meaningfully to aviation and its growing inclusivity.

Administration of the Bursary
The bursary will be hosted through the Black Aviation Professionals Network (BAPN), ensuring an inclusive and transparent selection process. Elevate Aviation will provide funding and collaborate with BAPN to promote the bursary,
maximizing its reach within the aviation community. One member of Elevate Aviation will participate on the selection committee.
Bursary Contribution
Elevate Aviation is proud to support the bursary by contributing $1,000 annually as well as an annual membership for Echo, our mentorship and professional development program. This contribution aligns with our shared commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity in aviation. The bursary will be awarded at BAPN Stargaze Gala – December 6, 2025 in Toronto, ON. An Elevate Aviation member will be in attendance to present the bursary to the selected recipient.
Elevate Aviation will make the payment directly to the recipient following the announcement. We are honoured to partner with BAPN in empowering Black women to pursue their dreams in aviation.
Conclusion
The AviateHER Bursary represents a meaningful collaboration between Elevate Aviation and BAPN, united by a shared vision of fostering inclusivity, diversity, and opportunity within the aviation industry. This bursary will not only help remove barriers to pursuing careers in aviation but also inspire a new generation of leaders committed to equity and community. Together, we are taking a bold step toward creating a more inclusive and supportive industry where everyone
has the chance to pursue their passion for aviation.