New Delhi— Hailing from the ST colony of Kavunkudi near Alakkode in Kerala, Gopika Govind has created history by becoming the state’s first tribal woman to work as an air hostess. Her achievement is not just a personal triumph but a proud milestone for Kerala—an inspiring tale of grit, determination, and unwavering belief in one’s dreams.
Born into the Karimbala tribal community, Gopika’s early life was marked by financial hardship. Her parents, P. Govindan and V.G., were daily wage laborers, striving to make ends meet. Despite the limited opportunities and challenges of growing up in a marginalized community, Gopika nurtured a childhood dream of working as a cabin crew member.
However, the path to achieving that dream was far from easy. Pressured by the realities of her family’s financial situation, Gopika chose a more practical route and pursued a BSc in Chemistry—an affordable and accessible option. Yet, her dream never left her.
A year after completing her degree, she was working in a regular job when a newspaper photo of flight attendants in crisp uniforms rekindled her passion for aviation. Determined to chase her dream, she found out about a government-supported course in aviation and enrolled in a one-year diploma program at Dream Sky Aviation Training Academy in Kalpetta, Wayanad.
Even before completing her course, Gopika began appearing for interviews. She was not selected in her first attempt, but her perseverance remained unshaken. On her second try, she succeeded. After three months of professional training, Gopika finally took to the skies—boarding her first flight as a cabin crew member from Kannur to a Gulf destination.
That flight wasn’t just the beginning of her aviation career—it was a moment that symbolized hope, resilience, and a beacon of inspiration for countless young girls from tribal and underprivileged backgrounds.
Speaking to Manorama Online, Gopika shared a powerful message:
If you have a dream, pursue it fearlessly. Have the confidence to achieve it—without that, we will reach nowhere. Don’t announce your goals to the world. Let your results speak for your hard work.
In every sense, Gopika Govind’s journey proves one thing loud and clear: the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.
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