By: Tracy Shepard
In an industry that has long been dominated by a monolithic demographic, Tasha Funes stands as a beacon of change and empowerment. As the first Black woman to own an aviation company, Exclusive Inflight, Funes is not only charting a new course but also actively dismantling the deeply ingrained barriers and stereotypes faced by women of color in aviation. Her pioneering journey is not just reshaping the future of flight but also inspiring countless others to dream big and soar higher.
The world of aviation has historically been perceived as an exclusive realm, with women of color facing significant underrepresentation and discouragement. The challenges they encounter range from overt discrimination to subtle biases that question their capabilities and place in the cockpit, and as a flight attendant. It’s within this context that Exclusive Inflight emerges not just as a company but as a transformative force, dedicated to nurturing talent and challenging the status quo.
Exclusive Inflight offers comprehensive training programs aimed at equipping aspiring flight attendants with the skills necessary for excellence in service. These courses are meticulously designed to cover all facets required for success in both commercial and the private flight sectors. By focusing on professional development, Exclusive Inflight ensures that its trainees are well-prepared to meet the demands of an evolving industry with confidence and competence.
For those already navigating the skies, Exclusive Inflight provides specialized training tailored to facilitate a smooth transition from being a commercial flight attendant to a corporate one—a niche yet flourishing sector that presents unique opportunities and challenges. This emphasis on continuous learning underscores Exclusive Inflight’s commitment to professional growth at every career stage.
Beyond training services, Exclusive Inflight distinguishes itself through its bespoke aircraft customization offerings. From aesthetic enhancements to functionality improvements, Tasha Funes and her team collaborate closely with clients to transform their aircraft into personalized havens that reflect their individual tastes and preferences. This dedication to excellence extends further into developing comprehensive standard operation procedures and quick reference handbooks, ensuring operations are conducted efficiently and safely while adhering to industry premier practices.
Tasha Funes’ visionary leadership is encapsulated in her powerful statement: “Throughout my career, I personally have encountered various stereotypes that seek to undermine the contributions of women of color in the field of Aviation. These preconceived notions can manifest in subtle ways, from assuming a lack of capability based solely on gender or race to undervaluing our insights and perspectives during critical discussions. Recognizing the impact of these stereotypes has been essential for me, not just on a personal level, but also in fostering a more inclusive environment for my colleagues.” This ethos drives Exclusive Inflight’s mission forward—championing inclusivity while striving for unparalleled service quality.
Exclusive Inflight’s influence extends beyond its immediate clientele, fostering a community where aspirations take flight amidst support and encouragement. Through its social media platforms on Facebook and Instagram (@ExclusiveInFlight), it offers glimpses into this empowering journey, sharing success stories, insights, and inspiration with a growing audience passionate about aviation.
As we navigate through an era where diversity is increasingly recognized as integral rather than supplementary to success across industries, Tasha Funes’ accomplishments signal hope for more equitable representation within aviation. Her unwavering dedication not only contributes significantly towards leveling the playing field but also redefines what it means to be part of this dynamic sector.
At its core, Exclusive Inflight embodies transformation—of individuals pursuing their passions against odds; of an industry historically slow to embrace change; of societal perceptions regarding who can achieve greatness within fields traditionally lacking diversity. Through Tasha Funes’ leadership, what began as one woman’s ambition has evolved into a movement empowering women of color across aviation—an endeavor that transcends mere business achievements.
In reflecting upon Tasha Funes’ journey from aspiration to realization within such a competitive landscape rife with systemic barriers for women of color—the narrative isn’t merely one of overcoming obstacles but fundamentally altering how those obstacles are perceived by society at large.
Through initiatives like ExclusiveInflight.com—and its vibrant online presence—Funes continues advocating for inclusivity whilst proving time again that excellence knows no boundaries nor colors; it simply requires opportunity coupled with determination.
Aspiring aviators need look no further than Tasha Funes’ story for motivation—a testament that regardless of one’s background or identity; skies remain limitlessly open for those daring enough to pursue their dreams without restraint or reservation.
For interview request with Tasha Funes, contact, Desirae L. Benson
Published by: Khy Talara
