Teara Fraser is a pioneering figure in the aviation industry, where only 8.5% of commercial pilots are female. She founded Iskwew Air, Canada's first Indigenous- and female-owned airline, emphasizing equity and matriarchal leadership through its name, which means 'woman' in Cree. Fraser's journey to becoming a pilot was inspired by a transformative flight experience, leading her to flight training and later to establishing her airline despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. Alongside her airline, she champions mentorship for aspiring young pilots through the Lift Collective, setting a strong example for future generations.
"The naming of the airline was intentional... It symbolizes a reclamation of womanhood, matriarchal leadership, and language. It was about disrupting existing systems and advocating for equity."
"'This was one of the most pivotal moments of my life,' Fraser says. 'I returned to Canada and started my flight training. A year later, I had my pilot's license.'"
"I wanted to show my daughter, who's my eldest child, that she could be anything she wanted to be."
"Fraser's airline offsets its emissions by buying credits from the Great Bear Forest Carbon Project."
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