Dreams Soar

Hear the inspirational story that took Shaesta Waiz around the world.

When Afghan-American pilot Shaesta Waiz decided to fly around the world, she knew she wanted to do it for something bigger than herself. Last year, Waiz became the youngest woman to circumnavigate the globe solo in a single-engine aircraft—and along the way, she inspired girls and boys to pursue STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields and aviation careers.

Born in an Afghan refugee camp, Waiz and her family immigrated to the United States when she was a young child. She discovered her passion for aviation at the age of 18 and went on to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. While at Embry-Riddle, Waiz founded the Women's Ambassador Program to mentor and support young women pursuing an education in aviation and engineering. She also founded the non-profit organization Dreams Soar, Inc., with the mission to inspire the next generation of STEM and aviation professionals around the world. Waiz holds a commercial pilot rating and is the first certified female civilian pilot from Afghanistan. 

In this lecture, hear first-hand about Waiz’s passion for global outreach to youth in underprivileged socioeconomic environments and in regions unsupportive of women. Waiz will also share stories of her around-the-world flight in a Beechcraft Bonanza A36 single-engine aircraft, a journey that spanned 145 days, 22 countries, and over 24,000 nautical miles.

This lecture is free, but tickets are required. Reserve tickets now.

Beginning at 6 pm, bring the kids early for free flight simulator challenges and a chance to talk with local pilots.

Get a preview of Waiz's inspiring story with this video, created when Shaesta Waiz received the 2018 National Air and Space Museum Trophy for Current Achievement.

The GE Aviation Lecture series is made possible by the generous support of GE Aviation.