Interview with Masithokoze Moyo – Soaring Beyond Limits as CEO and Aviation Industry Pioneer
- Brainz Magazine
- 5 hours ago
- 4 min read
Masithokoze Moyo, Founder and CEO of Angel Wings Aviation, has soared beyond the conventional limits of commercial aviation to become a globally recognized leader and Worldwide Who’s Who Professional of the Year. Her journey from a private pilot to a trailblazing entrepreneur and development activist is fueled by an unshakable passion, clear vision, and a commitment to empower others, especially young women in STEM fields. With a dynamic career spanning aviation, social enterprise, and writing, Masithokoze combines business acumen with heartfelt mentorship to inspire change on multiple fronts. In this exclusive interview, she shares the insights, challenges, and dreams that have shaped her remarkable path and why she believes success is rooted in passion, purpose, and perseverance.
What inspired you to start Angel Wings Aviation?
I still remember my very first flight from Zimbabwe to the United Kingdom. I was overwhelmed by the feeling of wonder as the plane took off and the world below became smaller. That moment stayed with me and shaped my dream of one day being part of the aviation world. Coming from a background where access to such experiences wasn’t common, I knew I wanted to create something that would open doors for others and make the skies feel a little more welcoming for everyone.
From a young age, I was fascinated by the skies. Airplanes represented freedom, possibility, and a sense of purpose. As I gained experience in the aviation industry, I noticed a clear gap between what private jet clients truly needed and what they were being offered. This inspired me to start Angel Wings Aviation, a company built on integrity, personal service, and the belief that luxury should feel warm, human, and effortless from start to finish.
How did you navigate your path in a male-dominated aviation industry?
I still remember walking into my first aviation class and realizing I was the only woman of color in the room. It was both intimidating and motivating. I had already fallen in love with flying years earlier, during my first solo flight, a moment that made me believe I truly belonged in the skies. But stepping into a space where I constantly had to prove I was capable pushed me to work harder, stay focused, and lean into my passion even when the odds felt stacked against me.
Navigating this male-dominated industry has taken perseverance, confidence, and community. I sought out mentors, both male and female, who believed in my potential and offered guidance when things got tough. I also learned to advocate for myself, to speak up when I was overlooked, and to mentor others who faced the same challenges I did. More than anything, I’ve stayed true to my purpose, to not only take my place in aviation but to help create space for others to soar alongside me.
What does leadership mean to you as a CEO and founder?
For me, leadership begins with vision. As a founder, I have always believed that a leader must be the one to hold the vision steady, especially when things are uncertain. It’s not just about steering the business forward, but about staying grounded in purpose while inspiring others to see what’s possible. I’ve learned that real leadership means taking full responsibility not only for success, but also for the mistakes and using those lessons to grow, both personally and as a team.
Leadership also means empowering people. I’ve never wanted to be the kind of leader who has all the answers; instead, I aim to create an environment where my team feels safe to think boldly, speak honestly, and reach their highest potential. I believe in leading by example, communicating with clarity, and showing empathy in every interaction. At the heart of it all, leadership is about connection, it’s about building something meaningful, lifting others as you rise, and leaving a legacy that outlives the title.
How do you stay focused and motivated through challenges?
When I face challenges, I always return to my why. Having a clear sense of purpose keeps me grounded, especially during difficult times. I set small, achievable goals and celebrate progress. I remind myself that every setback is part of the journey and not the end. I also take time for mindfulness, reflect on my past wins, and imagine the outcomes I am working toward. This helps me stay motivated and focused.
I believe challenges are not roadblocks but lessons to learn from. I have built routines that support my mental and physical well-being. Exercise, rest, healthy eating, and regular reflection all help me stay balanced. I also surround myself with a strong support network. Their encouragement keeps me going when my own energy is low. In the end, staying motivated is about consistency, being kind to myself, and always keeping my eyes on the bigger picture.
Why did you start the Masithokoze Foundation, and what impact do you hope it makes?
I started the Masithokoze Foundation because I believe that everyone deserves a fair chance to thrive, no matter their background or circumstances. Growing up, I witnessed many people facing barriers to education, healthcare, and opportunity. These experiences stayed with me and inspired a deep desire to create change. The name “Masithokoze,” meaning “let us rejoice” in isiZulu, captures the spirit of hope and community that drives the Foundation’s work.
The Foundation focuses on empowering individuals, especially young people and women, by providing access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. I hope that through our programs, we can help change lives one step at a time whether it’s a child receiving the gift of schooling, a family overcoming hunger, or someone finding the confidence to pursue their dreams. My vision is to see communities come together to uplift each other, where joy and success are shared experiences, not just distant hopes.
Though the journey has its challenges, I remain deeply committed to this cause. Every obstacle is an opportunity to learn, grow, and strengthen our work. Ultimately, I want the Masithokoze Foundation to be a beacon of transformation, a place where people find support, encouragement, and the chance to build better futures. Together, we can turn hardship into hope and celebrate the power of community and resilience.
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