The future of the drone industry depends on innovation—and innovation thrives on diverse perspectives. To tackle the world’s challenges with UAVs, the industry needs leaders from all walks of life who bring fresh ideas, unique experiences, and new ways of thinking. Recognizing this, the UAV Empower: Path to Leadership Event Scholarship was launched in at Commercial UAV Expo 2024 to uplift students with a passion for using drones to drive social and environmental good. 

Four incredible individuals were honored as the first recipients of the UAV Empower: Path to Leadership Event Scholarship this year. This groundbreaking initiative aims to uplift university students from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about leveraging Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) for social and environmental good.

Out of more than 80 applicants from around the globe, Daniel Alayande, Noah Baer, Jesca Manyika, and Nina Shack stood out for their creativity, drive, and vision for the future of drone technology. Their inspiring stories show how drones can solve real-world problems and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

Meet the 2024 Scholarship Recipients 

Daniel Alayande

Daniel began his journey in drones during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, when he and a group of friends built their own fixed-wing drone using only online tutorials. His early challenges—including designing and constructing the drone frame and overcoming technical setbacks—ignited his passion for drones. Daniel’s drive led him to place in the top three of the Nigerian Drone Business Competition in 2021 and earn a scholarship for a diploma program with the African Drone Academy in Malawi. Daniel has since become a certified drone pilot, working on large-scale projects like agricultural spraying for the Dangote Sugar Refinery, and has taken on the role of program coordinator for the African Drone Forum. His work focuses on advancing drone innovation and fostering collaboration across Africa’s drone industry.

Noah Baer

Noah was originally interested in firefighting, and found a new passion in drone technology after the global pandemic delayed his original career plans. Noah pursued a Drone Applications and Technologies program and completed his A.S. degree in 2023. He is currently studying Geography: Geographic Information Science and Technology and has earned his Part 107 License. Noah works professionally collecting multispectral data, recording and broadcasting video, and collecting lidar data, and is excited to continue exploring how drones can be used in various industries to drive change.

Jesca Manyika

Jesca Manyika’s passion for drones grew from her love of aviation and technology. While volunteering at Zimbabwe Flying Labs in 2021, Jesca was inspired by the applications of drones in Africa, particularly in empowering women and youth. She has since become a youth instructor for drone education programs, introducing over 5,000 young learners to the possibilities of drone technology. Jesca has worked in security and surveillance with Iron Mask Aerotech and received a scholarship from Women in Aviation International to further her studies. Her dedication to pushing the boundaries of drone innovation continues to inspire others, especially young girls in Africa, to pursue STEM careers.

Nina Shack

Nina Shack is a first-generation college student at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), where she is pursuing a degree in Aerospace with a focus on Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Nina’s interest in aviation began at the age of 13 when she joined the Aviation Career Enrichment (ACE) program. She has since earned her FAA remote pilot certificate and student pilot license and is dedicated to bringing innovation to underserved communities through UAS technology. Nina is committed to increasing diversity in STEM and using her education to bridge gaps and share the benefits of drone technology with others.

 Reflecting on her experience, Nina Shack remarked, "This scholarship was more than just attending the Commercial UAV Expo; it was a gateway to invaluable connections and opportunities within the UAV industry. The support and encouragement I received, particularly from women in the industry, have been empowering and inspiring. I’m excited to contribute to a community that is both dynamic and supportive.”

About the Scholarship 

The UAV Empower scholarship program was created to address the critical need for diversity, innovation, and leadership in the drone industry. By supporting students with strong visions for using UAS to tackle pressing global challenges, the initiative seeks to cultivate a new generation of leaders.

Recipients were chosen by an esteemed advisory committee of industry leaders, including Kat James, Founder of Four Hundred Feet; Eno Umoh, Co-founder of the Global Air Drone Academy; Rebecca Lehman, Senior ESG & Social Impact Manager at DroneDeploy; Carla Lauter, Content Manager at Commercial UAV News; and Lora Burns, DEI Manager at Commercial UAV Expo. These experts ensured the program identified promising candidates and provided them with essential tools for success.

Scholarship recipients received complimentary passes to the Commercial UAV Expo, covering keynotes, workshops, and networking opportunities. Additionally, they were provided with travel stipends and accommodations. Shack and Baer attended the event in person, addressing a standing-room-only audience during the “Path to Leadership: Building a Diverse, Engaged Workforce” session.

Looking Ahead

Applications for the 2025 UAV Empower: Path to Leadership Event Scholarship will open in spring 2025. Stay tuned to Commercial UAV News for updates, industry insights, and features on emerging leaders making a difference with drone technology.

By fostering a diverse and innovative workforce, the UAV Empower scholarship is shaping the future of the commercial drone industry—one leader at a time.