My first event as a Belgian Air Force Youth Ambassador (-and how I became one!)

March 22nd, 2023, marks the day I officially became a Belgian Air Force Youth Ambassador. (I am incredibly proud to be able to say this 😊.)

But before that exciting day, there was a journey that led me here…

To become a Youth Ambassador, I first had to go through a selection process. This involved filling out a detailed application form, where I answered all kinds of questions about my passion for aviation and why I was the right fit for the role. The highlight, though, was creating a video. In it, I introduced myself and explained why I believed I would make the perfect Youth Ambassador.

Then came the waiting—a period filled with impatience, excitement, and doubt. Honestly, I didn’t think I would make it, so when I finally received an email from the Belgian Air Force, I was incredibly nervous. As I opened it and saw the word “Congratulations,” I couldn’t believe my eyes—I literally fell off my chair! I was over the moon and beyond excited to start this incredible adventure.

Now, let’s get back to the kick-off event.

For our first meeting with each other and the ambassador program, we were invited to Melsbroek Airbase/Zaventem Airport, specifically at the air traffic control center. We began the afternoon by meeting everyone and attending a presentation, which gave us more information about the Belgian Air Force and our plans for the year. After getting briefed about the program, we kicked things off with a visit to the Air Traffic Control Centre (ATCC) and Skeyes. We got to see Brussels Airport from the control tower and learned about how everything operates behind the scenes.

I am incredibly grateful for the warm welcome we received and for the kind people who explained everything and answered all our questions. One thing I’m especially happy about is finally meeting the other Youth Ambassadors in real life. Such a wonderful group of people! I can’t wait to enjoy all the upcoming events with them to the fullest 😊.