From Kerala’s Hills to the Skies: Gopika Govind’s Inspiring Journey to Becoming a Flight Attendant

Dreams often take root in the most unassuming corners of the world—quietly nurtured by resilience and a burning desire for something greater. For Gopika Govind, a young woman from a remote tribal village in Kerala, the aspiration to soar among the clouds as a flight attendant began in humble surroundings and blossomed into reality through sheer grit and determination.

Hailing from the Scheduled Tribe (ST) colony of Kavunkudi near Alakkode, Gopika was born into the Karimbala tribal community. Her parents, P. Govindan and V.G., worked as daily wage laborers, and the family led a modest life. Despite the economic hardships, Gopika held tight to her dream of flying—not just in planes, but toward a future filled with possibilities.

Choosing a practical route, she pursued a BSc in Chemistry, aware that the financial limitations meant staying grounded for the time being. Still, the vision of becoming a cabin crew member remained etched in her heart. A year after completing her degree and working a job, an image of flight attendants in a newspaper reignited her childhood dream.

Determined to chase it, she discovered a government-backed aviation training opportunity and enrolled in a one-year diploma program at Dream Sky Aviation Training Academy in Kalpetta, Wayanad.

Even before completing the course, Gopika began applying for jobs. Her first attempt didn’t go as planned—but she refused to give up. On her second try, she succeeded. After undergoing three months of cabin crew training, she finally achieved her dream and took her first flight from Kannur to a Gulf destination as a flight attendant.

That flight was more than just a job—it was a symbol of courage, perseverance, and the limitless potential of dreams. For many young girls in tribal and marginalized communities, Gopika’s journey stands as a beacon of hope.

To those still dreaming, she shares this heartfelt message:
“If you have a dream, chase it without fear. Confidence is key—without it, we won’t go far. Don’t broadcast your ambitions to the world. Let your success speak for itself.”

For Gopika Govind, reaching the skies wasn’t the end goal—it was just the beginning of a soaring new chapter.