At HCOS, every student has a unique story, and we take pride in supporting learners as they soar toward their dreams. Today, we shine the spotlight on Keren W., a Grade 10 student who is reaching for the skies—literally.
A Year of Milestones
For Keren, 2024 was a transformative year, filled with groundbreaking achievements. She pursued her passion for aviation through flight training and exciting trips. From passing her PSTAR and Restricted Operator’s Certificate with outstanding scores (96% and 100%, respectively) to earning her Student Pilot Permit in the spring, Keren’s dedication has been unwavering. In the summer, she achieved another significant milestone—being cleared for her first solo flight at CYVR.
Over the past two years, she has trained with Aurora Aviation in Vernon and BP Aviation in Penticton, accumulating 50 flight hours, including more than 10 solo hours in Cessna 172 and Beechcraft C23 aircraft. Keren describes flying as an experience that “gives me a different perspective from everyone since flying allows me to look down at the world from a larger point of view which broadens my capacity to face difficult challenges.” This unique perspective has helped her realize that many personal and societal problems are “not that deep” and can be overcome.
Career Connections
Keren’s journey began with an amazing opportunity through HCOS. Through HCOS’ Community Connections (CC) in Kelowna, Keren was in Mrs. Deanne Allen’s class for Grades 8 and 9. During her Career Life course, she completed a job research project that introduced her to the field of aviation. This project ignited a passion for flying and set her on a journey toward pursuing her dream.
Breaking Barriers
In a traditionally male-dominated field with an average age of 45.3, Keren is determined to succeed and inspire girls in her community, spreading the empowering message that “nothing is too complex to achieve.” To take the first step toward this goal, she has joined the 99s, an international organization of women pilots, to expand her outreach and connect with like-minded individuals. Under the age restrictions set by Transport Canada, Keren is diligently studying for her Private Pilot’s License (PPL) and is patiently awaiting her 17th birthday to take both the written and flight tests.
Looking Ahead
Keren’s aviation journey is only just beginning. With aspirations of one day becoming a licensed pilot and exploring the world from above, she’s well on her way to turning her dreams into reality.
Guided by her faith in God, Keren believes He has opened doors for her future, and is inspired by the verse, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” — Jeremiah 29:11.
Share Your Story
Do you or your child have a story of success to share? We’d love to hear it! Whether you’re excelling in academics, sports, the arts, or something entirely unique, we want to celebrate your achievements.
Share your journey with us by filling out our quick form here:
Let’s continue moving Forward Together, celebrating the incredible students of HCOS who are redefining what education can look like.
