The Air Crash Victims’ Families’ Federation International (ACVFFI), led by AVJK5022, had a significant presence at the ICAO World Gender Aviation Summit (GAGS23) in Madrid from July 5th to 7th, 2023.
The delegation from ACVFFI was led by Chairperson Ms. Pilar Vera and made up of Ms. Claudia Carrasco, President of ACHIVAAF, Ms. Monica Maccaferri, member of Comitato 8 Ottobre and Ms. Henar Guerrero, Secretary General of AVJK5022.
During the Summit, we discussed pertinent issues concerning gender equality in the aviation industry, such as access to job opportunities, workplace safety, and combating gender-based harassment and discrimination.
Panel 6, titled “Breaking Prejudice: Promoting Role Models and Changing Stereotypes”.
Composition of the panel:
- Marta Encinas-Martin
(Moderator). Senior Advisor Global Relations and Education Gender Ambassador, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) - Magdalena Olczak-Rancitelli
(Setting the scene) Manager, Institutional Relations and Summit, Gender Coordinator, International Transport Forum (ITF)
Speakers:
- Baroness Vere of Norbiton OBE. Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Department for Transport (DfT), United Kingdom.
- Kendra Kincade. Founder and President, Elevate Aviation, Canada.
- Marina Estal Muñoz. Head, Airspace Policy, Directorate General, Civil Aviation, Spain.
- Oriel Petry. Senior Vice President, Head of Public Affairs UK, Airbus.
- Pilar Vera (discussant). Chair, Air Crash Victims’ Families’ Federation International (ACVFFI).
This session focused on the “seeing is believing” concept and how role models can encourage younger generations to pursue careers in the transportation sector, specifically aviation, and exhibit the necessary mindset and behaviours to advance their careers. By highlighting successful individuals from diverse motivations, we can inspire others to believe they can succeed too. Ultimately, promoting positive role models is about expanding the limits of what people believe is possible. The session emphasized the significance of diversifying role models and how men can promote gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Intervention of Ms. Pilar Vera
Pilar’s presentation focused on two main issues, the value of the work done by women in assisting air accident victims and their families, and gender equality in the field of family assistance.
The session held on July 7th was a truly remarkable event, Mr. Sciacchitano, President of ICAO, delivered a speech that encapsulated the spirit of the Summit. While addressing the audience, he took a moment to acknowledge the intervention made by Ms. Pilar Vera, who served as the leader of ACVFFI and also happened to be the first woman to hold such a role in the field of victim assistance. Ms. Vera’s achievements were truly significant, and she has left an indelible mark on the industry that will benefit future individuals impacted by air accidents. Her relentless work, dedication, and commitment to improving the industry have earned her praise and admiration from others present at the Summit.