Meet the inspiring leaders and mentors driving change in aerospace and drone technology
Aerospace Engineer | UAS Professional | DGCA Certified Remote Pilot | Animal Activist | STEM & Deep Tech Enthusiast. Alina Usmani is a dynamic aerospace professional and the visionary Founder of Drones For Her (DFH) since March 2024, dedicated to empowering women in drone technology and aviation
She is a pioneering figure in Indian aviation, renowned for lifting the trajectory of women professionals in aerospace and civil aviation. She serves as the President of the Indian Women Pilots Association (IWPA) which also represents International Women Professionals in Aviation & Aerospace and is celebrated for her extensive contributions to flight safety and leadership. Notably, she is the first woman in India to serve as Chief of Flight Safety at Air India. Also awarded Bharat Ratna by Aeronautical society of India. Her visionary leadership extends beyond aviation; she is a strategic advisor, industry champion, and an advocate for elevating women across technical and managerial roles in aerospace
A Padma Shri Awardee (2011), is a renowned skydiver & the only woman to have skydived over 7 continents, as well as the north pole, south pole & Mount everest. She has completed 784 skydives, most from above 13,000 ft, including one from 30,500 ft. Shital is also a DGCA certified drone pilot, paragliding pilot & novice aeromodelling pilot.
He is a mentor for women entrepreneurs & stem education, specializing in the industry - academia interface, soft skills development, & workplace gender equality. With over 35 years of experience, he has mentored more than 6 startups, including projects in drone & aerospace, founded and directed multiple IT companies and serves as a technology consultant.
Ashwini is an aerospace professional specializing in the research, development, testing, and demonstration of drone and anti-drone systems, particularly within the defense domain. His expertise lies in transforming complex UAV concepts into real-world aerial solutions. At DFH, Ashwini embodies the spirit of “HeForShe,” using his technical leadership to amplify opportunities for women in the drone ecosystem
Dr. Ruchi Saxena is the visionary leader behind Caerobotics, a social-impact consultancy empowering communities through drone technology, geospatial data, and AI-driven solutions for healthcare, disaster response, and sustainable development. As the Director of India Flying Labs and a celebrated speaker on global platforms, she has cultivated networks for drone-led social good across countries. Her accomplishments include launching Drones in Development, coordinating international knowledge-sharing programs, and receiving accolades like the Airwards 'Disruptor' People's Choice Award and inclusion among '50 Women in Robotics You Must Know' (2021)