LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) – Envision being a young individual with lifelong aspirations and suddenly having those dreams shattered due to a war erupting in your homeland. This was the reality for a Ukrainian refugee who found support from a local business owner and the community in the Lake Charles area. Today, he is looking towards a promising future:
At this time last year, Alan Abduzhalilov could not have fathomed that he would be soaring above Lake Charles, but as we know, much can change in a year. Having fled to Romania with his family, Alan was seeking sponsorship to start a new life in the United States. However, his ambitions of pursuing a career as a pilot were dashed by the ravages of war.
“Once the war commenced, all Ukrainian airspace was restricted, hindering any flight training opportunities,” explained Abduzhalilov.
Steve Thompson, the proprietor of [ppp1], came across Alan’s story on social media and made the generous decision to fully sponsor him, alongside other supportive members of the community.
“Alan was in search of a sponsor in the USA to assist him in providing for his family after they escaped the conflict zone. When I read his post and learned about his passion for aviation, despite the setbacks he faced, I knew he was someone deserving of an opportunity,” shared Thompson.
Following his arrival, Alan underwent eight months of rigorous training and successfully obtained his private pilot’s license, instrument rating, commercial license, and certified flight instructor rating, enabling him to pursue a professional career in aviation.
Thompson expressed his intention to appoint Alan to lead Rock Solid Aviation’s expansion into New Orleans.
“He is undeniably the most determined individual I have ever encountered. Regardless of his age, he begins each day with unwavering drive and determination. He refuses to give up until he achieves his objectives. I offer him guidance, and he transforms it into reality,” remarked Thompson.
With newfound optimism for the future, Alan reflected, “I am still in disbelief over how everything unfolded since my arrival here. This opportunity is monumental, and it all fell into place seamlessly.”
Thompson acknowledged the financial challenges associated with flight school and emphasized Rock Solid Aviation’s commitment to assisting individuals, like a prospective pilot in DeRidder, in realizing their aviation dreams. For further details, please refer to Rock Solid Aviation’s Facebook page.
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