Photograph: Dashboard in the sky

Siba once had his own moment of fear, and challenge, up in the sky between East London and Mthatha one windy, gusty day.

“A sudden gust of wind pushed the chopper around. We had been going at a speed of 80 knots and suddenly we were at zero, which is very dangerous in helicopter flying.”

The chopper lost altitude but managed to regain its speed during the descent.

“Nature is very unpredictable. You must know what to do when situations like this arise and how to recover.”

His other memorable flights were taking his mother and grandparents on a surprise flip on Mother’s Day and hovering over Dimbaza township in view of his childhood friends.

He hoped to inspire others to reach their dreams.

“Young people out there must never give up on their dreams,” said Siba, who is also active in his church.

“If you want something you must just go for it and not give up.

“The dream gets you there.”

COMMENT: Does Siba inspire you?