TribesAndHistory: What is your name, and how would you like to be addressed?

Mohamed: My name is Mohamed.

TribesAndHistory: Great. And how can readers connect with you?

Mohamed: Mostly through LinkedIn here. That’s where I share most of my activities.

TribesAndHistory: Perfect. So, where are you from originally?

Mohamed: I am from Egypt. I live in Cairo now, but I’m originally from a village called Shatanof.

TribesAndHistory: So, currently you’re based in Cairo.

Mohamed: Yes, that’s right.

TribesAndHistory: Wonderful. So tell us, what do you do?

Mohamed: I am a mechanical engineer. I started my career back in 2001, so I have about 25 years of experience in aviation. I also founded an initiative called Aviation Hub. It started as a small online group for aviation professionals to connect, share experiences, and support each other. Over time, it grew much bigger. Now we provide training, consulting, and guidance for people who want to pursue careers in aviation. Aviation is a fascinating and global field, but even within the industry, many people don’t know about the different career paths available. Our goal is to highlight these opportunities and support both newcomers and professionals in advancing their careers.

TribesAndHistory: That’s impressive. So Aviation Hub isn’t exactly a company; it’s more of a nonprofit community, correct?

Mohamed: Yes, exactly. It’s a nonprofit community. What’s amazing is how quickly it has grown. We started just two years ago, and now we have members from all over the world, including individuals and even government aviation entities. It was surprising to see such interest in such a short time.

TribesAndHistory: When exactly did you start Aviation Hub?

Mohamed: I started the group in August 2023. We don’t yet have a formal legal identity, but we’re working on that.

TribesAndHistory: Wow, so it’s still very young, yet already making an impact. What inspired you to establish Aviation Hub in the first place?

Mohamed: Two things inspired me. First, I was active on LinkedIn and often received messages from people asking for advice on how to get into aviation or how to progress in their careers. I did my best to help, but I realized it would be more effective to create a community where many people could support one another.

Second, aviation in Africa is still developing, but we have many qualified professionals who are often underrepresented on the global stage. Aviation is usually associated with Europe or the U.S., but Africa and Asia also have strong talent. I wanted to create a space where we could connect, share knowledge, and showcase our expertise internationally.

TribesAndHistory: That’s powerful, especially since aviation is such a global industry. Bringing Africans together in this field is so important.

Mohamed: Exactly. It hasn’t been easy. Even for a nonprofit, finances are a challenge. But with support from friends and my own resources, we’ve been able to take meaningful steps. I believe that anything with real value will eventually be recognized, even if it takes time.

TribesAndHistory: Absolutely. Can you share a moment in your career that shaped the kind of leader you are today?

Mohamed: Yes. When I was younger, one of my teachers taught me something I never forgot: “A successful person is like a building, every person who adds even a small stone contributes to that success.” That stayed with me. Sometimes, all it takes is someone saying, “I believe in you,” to change your path.

Another example is from Aviation Hub. One of our female members, a manager in aviation from Asia, was nominated for an award. As a community, we supported her, and she won. That was a powerful moment because it showed me the strength of community, that we can achieve things together that we couldn’t achieve alone.

I’ve also learned to believe in the younger generation. Some people think they’re careless, always on their phones, but I see potential. They’re skilled in technology and full of fresh ideas. They just need guidance, and when they have it, the results are incredible.

TribesAndHistory: I love that. And you’re right, that example of your member winning shows the power of community. Without the Aviation Hub, she might not have had that support network.

Mohamed: Exactly. Aviation is huge, but it’s also interconnected. We can all learn from each other, pilots, engineers, cabin crew, managers, everyone brings a unique perspective.

TribesAndHistory: That’s so true. Now, let’s talk about legacy. What legacy do you hope to leave for the next generation of Africans?

Mohamed: Honestly, I don’t believe every leader needs to “start from scratch” or be a hero who changes the world. We already have a rich history and a lot of experience passed down to us. I hope that we build on what came before us, rather than always starting over.

If I can add even one or two steps forward for those who come after me, that’s enough. Small wins matter. Cooperation, teamwork, and continuity, that’s the kind of legacy I want to leave.

TribesAndHistory: I couldn’t agree more. And for us at TribesAndHistory, that’s also why we tell our stories, to preserve heritage and history so future generations can build on them.

Mohamed: Exactly. If you don’t know your history, you won’t know how to shape your future.

TribesAndHistory: Well said. Any last words of wisdom before we wrap up?

Mohamed: Just that I truly appreciate the work you’re doing. Many people don’t realize the effort behind projects like this, but I know it takes a lot of hard work. It’s an honor to be here with you, and I’ll always be ready to support in any way I can. After all, we are African brothers.

TribesAndHistory: Thank you so much, Mohamad. It’s been such a pleasure speaking with you. I truly appreciate your time and your inspiring words.

Mohamed: Thank you. The pleasure is mine.