Empowering Future Aviators: New Nation Construction Sponsors the Philip Lewis Project

Student in aircraft ride with instructor at the Philip Lewis Project.

The Sky is Not the Limit, A Passion for Aviation, New Nation Construction, displayed its commitment to building futures not just structures. With its recent sponsorship of the Philip Lewis Project, an initiative inspiring high school students (grades 10–12) to pursue careers in aviation, aeronautical engineering, aerospace engineering, aircraft mechanics, and air traffic control, reflects its dedication to youth empowerment and STEM education in South Africa.

Event Overview: Inspiring the Next Generation of Aviators in South Africa

The Philip Lewis Project is a transformative aviation career program designed to introduce students to high-demand fields in the aerospace industry. Targeting underprivileged youth, the initiative provides:

• Hands-on aviation training
• Exposure to aerospace careers
• Mentorship from industry professionals

By focusing on STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), the project helps bridge the skills gap in South Africa’s aviation sector.

The project management contacted 15 to 20 schools in the Mbombela, Mpumalanga region to target a short list of 30 to 60 grade 10 to grade 12 learners and launched a two-phased competition. With this they identified math and science learners. Phase one was a  build-off of the SAMAA Dart Glider, and learners submitted video footage of set challenges with a real desire to gain exposure within the South African Aviation industry.

Phase two of the build-off with the SAMAA Dart propeller model aircraft, which will identify two learners who will qualify for introductory flights by the flying school at the Nelspruit Airport.

The other learners got to experience flights by EAA pilots for the Young Eagles programme. The Mbombela Young Falcons RC pilots provided buddy-box assisted flights, and to close off the programme, the learners enjoyed a sponsored meal From Spur which included a hearty spur burger meal, before being transported back to their schools. Some of the Schools in attendance were : Kutsalani Primary School, Suikerland Secondary School, Hazyview Comprehensive School, Sitintile Secondary School, Khumbula Secondary School,  Acorn- Oaks Comprehensive HIgh School and Lehlasedi High School. 

High School Students Seated at Philip Lewis Project Event - May 2025

Aviation Career Activities: Learning Through Experience

Students engaged in interactive aviation workshops, including:

·         Building Glider Models – Understanding aerodynamics and aircraft design principles

·         Helicopter Rides – Sponsored by Kishugu Flying School, giving students a real-world flight experience

·         Military & Civil Aviation Demonstrations – Featuring South African Defence Force (SADF) aircraft and pilots sharing career insights

These aviation training programs made complex concepts accessible, sparking interest in aviation careers in South Africa.

Display of built aircraft Model

Learners Building aircraft model

                                                  

Key Aviation Industry Partners Driving Success

The event’s impact was amplified through partnerships with leading aviation organizations in South Africa:

Ø  Mpumalanga Lowveld Airshow – Provided expertise in aviation events and education

Ø  South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) – Highlighted aviation regulations and career pathways

Ø  New Generation Aviation & Air Traffic Navigation Services (ATNS) – Showcased air traffic control careers

Ø  Mpumalanga Department of Education - reinforcing the vital link between academic development and aviation career readiness.

These collaborations reinforced the importance of public-private partnerships in STEM development.

Motivational Aviation Speakers: Inspiring Tomorrow’s Leaders

Key industry leaders delivered powerful messages:

 Mr S.J Mkhwanazi – Deputy General of Mpumalanga Department of Education

He delivered a resounding endorsement of this transformative initiative, emphasizing its critical role in shaping the future of youth development and STEM education in the province. Standing alongside aviation experts and eager learners, the Deputy General highlighted how the project perfectly aligns with the department’s strategic vision.

Daniel Molefe: Pilot from Gauteng province (Flies Turbine Jets)
He Alluded his passion for flying and encouraged students with an interest in the field, he indicated that one should “Turn wounds into wisdom and don’t let your background judge where you are going “. He narrated his love for planes and how he turned that passion into a pathway for others in the country, granting young kids an opportunity to fly for the first time with the annual first flight project , which he indicated will be held in Wonderboom airport on July 25^th where 1000 kids will be flown.

MS Itumeleng Dipoko: Drone Pillot – UV Industries (Based in Sandton)
She is a young woman with a passion for aviation and has built a career in aviation, she currently operates as a drone pilot used for surveillance in the country. She emphasised that “You must enjoy what you are doing because aviation is fueled by passion “

Mr, Rhulani Vuma – ATNS Representative

Declared the different career paths available at ATNS and what the key roles are for the Air Traffic and Navigation services are in aviation. He emphasised that the main mandate is the keep the skies safe. He affirmed the students and indicated that “To keep everyone safe you need to know what you are doing, and you need to be disciplined. You also need to have good marks in Math’s, English and Geography especially in air traffic control and for bursary requirements “

Mr Arna De Langer – Kishugu Aviation Training 

He articulated the different aircrafts one being the commander Control Aircraft, which is used as a communication aircraft, it can take about 5 passengers and can fly about 4-6 hours and travel to 280km. He declared that “Aviation does not necessarily equal to being a pilot, you can be the best pilot in the world but if your aircraft is broken you cannot fly” He Highlighted the importance of Aviation Maintenance engineers.

These aviation career success stories left students motivated to pursue their dreams.

South African Airforce personnel in uniform 

South African Air Force personnel

Long-Term Impact: Building South Africa’s Aviation Workforce

The Philip Lewis Project is more than an event, it’s an investment in South Africa’s future aviation professionals. By: Encouraging STEM education in schools , Providing access to aviation careers for disadvantaged youth and Strengthening the pipeline of skilled aerospace talent

New Nation Construction is proud to support this youth development initiative, helping shape the next generation of pilots, aeronautical engineers, and air traffic controllers.

Support Aviation Education in South Africa

The demand for skilled aviation professionals is growing. We invite businesses, aviation stakeholders, and sponsors to join us in empowering young minds through:

• Sponsorships for aviation training programs
•  Mentorship opportunities
•  STEM education funding

Student inside aircraft- Philip Lewis Project May 2025

Together, we can help South Africa’s youth reach new heights. New Nation Construction, Building Infrastructure, Empowering Futures. Partner with us! Contact alec@newnationprojects.co.za to support the next Philip Lewis Project.