Biography:
Maya Ghazal is a UK-based Syrian refugee who has made significant contributions as a pilot and advocate for refugees. Born to a father who ran a fabric factory on the outskirts of Damascus, Ghazal grew up in a family of three, including her two brothers. However, her peaceful life took a turn when the Syrian civil war erupted in 2011, when she was just 12 years old.
In September 2015, at the age of 16, Ghazal had to flee Syria along with her mother and siblings. Following the path her father had taken, they sought refuge in Birmingham, UK. However, the transition to a new country and the challenges that accompanied it were not easy for Ghazal. Being only 16 years old, she faced difficulties in continuing her education since the legal school-leaving age in the UK is also 16. As a result, she encountered obstacles in finding a school that would accept her, and her Syrian education credentials were often not recognized by the institutions. Despite these setbacks, Ghazal’s determination and resilience drove her to persevere.
Ghazal and her family later moved to London, where she continued to pursue her dreams against all odds. In 2017, she was honored as one of the Diana Award recipients, joining a group of 20 individuals recognized for their outstanding contributions and positive impact on society. This achievement served as a testament to Ghazal’s unwavering dedication and her ability to overcome adversities.
Fuelled by her passion for aviation, Ghazal enrolled in aeronautical engineering and pilot education at Brunel University London. With sheer determination and hard work, she excelled in her studies, breaking barriers and proving that women can thrive in traditionally male-dominated fields. Her ambition soared further in 2020 when she became the first female Syrian refugee to become a pilot, making history and inspiring countless others in the process.
The following year, in 2021, Maya Ghazal was appointed as a United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Goodwill Ambassador. In this role, she uses her platform to advocate for the rights and well-being of refugees, drawing attention to their struggles and seeking meaningful solutions for their integration and inclusion. Ghazal’s unique perspective as a refugee herself allows her to connect deeply with others who have experienced displacement and to amplify their voices on a global scale.
Maya Ghazal’s journey from a war-torn country to becoming a symbol of hope and resilience showcases the transformative power of determination and the human spirit. Her accomplishments as a pilot, as well as her dedication to advocating for refugees, have not only shattered stereotypes but also paved the way for others to follow their dreams and make a positive impact on society.
Awards:
– Diana Award (2017)