Shernel Krupanandham, an air hostess at Emirates wants to use her experience on the airline to inspire other young people to take to the sky.
The 25-year-old, formerly from Chatsworth in Durban, jet sets with the airline to some of the most exotic locations in the world, either as an air hostess or a model.
After giving up a career in law, she decided to take a risk and become an air hostess. She has never looked back since then.
IOL Travel caught up with the beauty to find out about her flying experiences:
How did it all start?
It all stemmed from a conversation with a friend. She described how beautiful it was to be an air hostess and the opportunities it brought with it. After speaking to her and hearing about her travels, I started to question mine. I asked myself what I was doing with my life and why I was restricting myself to a mediocre life. I was mentally prepared to give up my career in law to pursue a life of an air hostess.
Tell us about the first time you flew?
It was a trip from Dubai to Manchester, London. It was nerve wracking. I almost had a mild heart attack and there were lots of emotions going through me. However, I managed to get through it with no major hiccups along the route. Once we landed, I treated myself to a shopping spree.
Shernel Krupanandham loves to travel.
What goes on behind the scenes?
There is a grueling process that one has to undergo. While people think we are there to look pretty, our main purpose as cabin crew is to ensure that passengers are comfortable and safe at all times. Each year we have to write exams that deals with various aspects including medical, aviation and safety to ensure that we give our best to our customers.
What has your job taught you?
My job has taught me to handle every situation calmly and with a smile.
Your advice for people wanting to get into the field?
Always strive for what makes you happy.
You get paid to travel. That is pretty cool! Are there any challenges?
My job is pretty much the best, although the big issue for me would be sleep and jet lag.
Your favourite place is...
Los Angeles. It is one of those places that has a laid back feel to it.
What are your career plans?
I want to grow within the Emirates group. Currently, I service the economy class. I have my eyes set on business and first class, and who knows where my future will take me from there…