In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and innovation, David Opateyibo stands out as a trailblazer at the tender age of 20. Hailing from Nigeria, David has become an international sensation for his remarkable contributions to drone technology, showcasing an unparalleled passion and expertise that belie his youthful years.
Early Passion and Academic JourneyDavid‘s journey into the world of aeronautics began in his 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥hood, fueled by an intense fascination with technology and aircraft. His early experimentation with crafting airplanes from basic materials foreshadowed a remarkable trajectory. In 2015, David enrolled in the International College of Aeronautics in Lagos, Nigeria, specializing in Aircraft Building Technology (ABT).
Such was his proficiency that David not only excelled in his studies but was also invited to serve as an instructor while still a student, showcasing a depth of knowledge that surpassed his peers.
Building the Future: From Drones to AirplanesIn 2017, David gained recognition for constructing a drone from scratch, presenting it to the State governor. This marked a pivotal moment in his journey and set the stage for his future accomplishments. At the age of 19, he obtained his Remote Pilot License (RPL) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States, becoming an active member of the Nigeria Unmanned Systems and Robotics Association (NUSA).
David’s zeal for innovation continued as he led a team of five students to build an all-metal two-seat airplane, the Zenith CH 750 Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL), at the Zenith Aircraft Building Company in Missouri. This marked the first-of-its-kind achievement in Nigeria, showcasing David’s leadership and commitment to pushing boundaries.
A Visionary EntrepreneurPresently, David serves as a freelancer for various organizations, providing cutting-edge drone services and products. His belief in the future of drone technology stems from its versatility, expanding from military applications to civilian uses. In a rapidly evolving era of data science, artificial intelligence, and the internet of things, David envisions drones as integral to shaping the future.
Beyond Drones: A Multifaceted TalentDavid Opateyibo is not confined to the realm of drones alone. When not immersed in his drone projects, he enjoys building and flying radio-controlled models for leisure. His commitment to education and community shines through as he dedicates time to assist students with their robotic projects. Furthermore, he possesses a flair for the arts, playing the keyboard, and offering various digital services such as crafting sales copies for diverse business products and niches.
A Remarkable Career and Future AspirationsDavid’s LinkedIn profile echoes his commitment to excellence and service. As the founder of Dronerios, an educational brand dedicated to nurturing the next generation of drone pilots, he aims to equip them with essential s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s, knowledge, and a strong emphasis on safety.
With over 300 hours of logged UAV flight time, David brings a wealth of experience to the table. His services span piloting, maintenance, consultations, procurement assistance, and customized drone development for various industrial needs. Having worked with industries such as telecommunications, construction, real estate, topographical survey, energy, and oil & gas, he possesses a diverse portfolio of achievements.
In a recent reflection on his two-year journey at Aerial Robotix UAV Services Ltd, David expressed gratitude to the management and team for the experiences and growth he has encountered. With over 670 flights, 230 hours logged, and a travel distance exceeding 6600 km, David’s commitment to excellence and progress is evident.
ConclusionDavid Opateyibo is not just an entrepreneur; he is a visionary paving the way for the future of drone technology. His story is not just about the impressive inventions but also about his commitment to education, community, and positive change. As he continues to soar to new heights, there is no doubt that David will leave an indelible mark on the world of technology and inspire generations to come. Follow his journey on social media, and watch as this 20-year-old Nigerian entrepreneur reshapes the future.
In the realm of African STEM education, where challenges often outnumber opportunities, Nomhle Ngwenya emerges as a beacon of inspiration. At the tender age of 25, she etched her name in history as the youngest individual and the first Black woman to attain a Ph.D. from Wits University’s science faculty.
The World Bank reports that females constitute a mere 30% of STEM graduates in Sub-Saharan Africa, underscoring the hurdles faced by African women in these fields. Nevertheless, Ngwenya defied the odds, not only becoming the youngest Ph.D. graduate at Wits but also the youngest academic to secure a Ph.D. in science, a milestone hailed as unprecedented in Wits’ annals.
From a young age, Ngwenya harbored dreams of delving into the complex interplay between geography and society, a passion that eventually propelled her into the multidisciplinary world of geography. Starting with a BA degree in sociology and geography at Wits in 2015, she completed the program in 2017, embarking on an academic journey that would soon break records.
Her pursuit continued with a bachelor of science honours degree in geography, a specialized program delving into sustainability science, water science, and human geography components, including seldom-covered subjects like environmental management. During her honours year, Ngwenya’s research focused on public participation and stakeholder engagement in carbon capture and storage, garnering acclaim from her supervisor, Professor Danny Simatele.
