Born: 1952 (Khartoum, Sudan)
Died: 2016 (Unknown location)
Biography:
Zeinab Elobeid Yousif (1952 – 19 March 2016) was a trailblazing Sudanese aircraft engineer who broke barriers and shattered stereotypes in her field. She became the first Sudanese woman to be licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority in the United Kingdom, leaving an indelible mark on the aviation industry.
Born on 13 June 1952 in Khartoum, Sudan, Zeinab Elobeid Yousif grew up in the village of Oum Dawwaban, which was known for its religious school for boys. In the 1960s, Sudanese society was deeply patriarchal, and women faced significant obstacles in pursuing education and career opportunities in technical fields like engineering. However, inspired by her father’s encouragement, Yousif defied societal expectations and pursued her passion for engineering.
Yousif enrolled at Khartoum Polytechnic, now the University of Science and Technology, where she studied electronic engineering from 1970 to 1973. After completing her education, she embarked on a groundbreaking career in aviation.
In July 1973, Yousif joined Sudan Airways, where she commenced her illustrious journey as an aircraft engineer. Initially, she found herself working in the radio workshop, specializing in the maintenance and repair of aircraft communication systems. The passion and dedication she displayed in her work quickly earned her recognition within the industry.
Eager to expand her knowledge and skills, Yousif pursued further education in avionics and aerospace engineering. From 1983 to 1986, she studied at Brunel Technical College in Bristol, United Kingdom. It was during this time that she obtained her license from the prestigious Civil Aviation Authority, making her the first Sudanese woman to achieve this remarkable feat.
Yousif’s expertise and proficiency in her field propelled her career forward. She assumed the role of a ground engineer, working on various aircraft models including the Boeing 707, Boeing 737, 347, Fokker 50, Fokker F27, Cessna 402, Cessna 404, Cessna 208, and Beach craft 1900. Her exceptional contributions to Sudan Airways made a lasting impact on the airline’s operations and set a precedent for women working in aviation.
In the pursuit of excellence, Yousif relocated to the United Kingdom in 1992. Here, she continued to defy expectations and expand her repertoire of skills. She embarked on a new academic journey, completing a Master of Science degree in Advanced Manufacturing Systems from Kingston University, London, in the 1990s. This further solidified her position as a distinguished engineer in her field.
Throughout her life, Zeinab Elobeid Yousif faced numerous challenges and obstacles. Yet, her unwavering determination and passion for her work enabled her to overcome every hurdle and emerge triumphant. Her career in aviation not only broke societal norms but also paved the way for countless other women who aspired to pursue their dreams in technical fields.
Zeinab Elobeid Yousif’s legacy extends far beyond her professional achievements. Her courage and resilience serve as an inspiration for women worldwide, especially those aspiring to enter male-dominated industries. In a time when women’s contributions were often overlooked and undervalued, Yousif proved that gender should never hinder one’s pursuit of excellence.