Colonel Ghislaine Léa Yangongo first joined the Central African Republic's army (known as Forces Armée de la Centrafrique, or FACA) as a volunteer in 1997. After graduating from officers' school, she rose through the traditionally male-dominated ranks to command the Air Force base in the capital, Bangui.
Central Africa n Republic: Colonel Léa Yangongo - Inspiring Women to Join and Thrive in the Military in the Central Africa n RepublicColonel Ghislaine Léa Yangongo first joined the Central Africa n Republic's army as a volunteer in 1997. After graduating from officers' school, she rose through the traditionally male-dominated ranks to command the Air Force base in the capital, Bangui.
The first women joined the national army in 1971, that is more than 53 years ago. When I joined the army in 1999, there were unfortunately still very few women in the ranks. So, when I was admitted at the Air Force Academy it was the first time for us to have a female officer, especially one reaching leadership status straight after graduation. I'm proud that I was able to advance to the strategic level.
My family, friends and colleagues all support me, and that counts. But, as a woman, I work double the amount of time as my male colleagues: when I get home from a 10-12-hour shift, I tend to my family, the meals and my home.""My greatest achievement is to have inspired other women, motivated them, and given them the courage to pursue a career in the national army just like their male counterparts.
Today, after more than 25 years of professional experience and facing all related challenges, I would tell young women who are still hesitant that they have their place in the national army, in the defense and security forces. I also invite parents to encourage girls to join the national army by sending them to school instead of keeping them at home to handle domestic tasks.There was a problem processing your submission. Please try again later.
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