25-year-old Commercial pilot with no hands or Feet

Zachary Anglin’s story is one of unyielding determination, resilience, and the unshakeable belief that no dream is too high to reach. Born in Nigeria and raised in Wisconsin by his adoptive parents, Zach Anglin entered the world without hands or feet. Yet, from a young age, he possessed an indomitable spirit and a passion for aviation that propelled him beyond the limits set by his physical condition. Today, at 25 years old, Anglin has made history as the world’s first quadruple amputee commercial pilot and flight instructor, proving that the sky is truly the limit.

A Dream Takes Flight

Zach’s fascination with aviation began in childhood. Watching airplanes take off and land at airports, he was captivated by the thought of piloting these giant machines. Despite his condition, he was unwavering in his determination to become a pilot. His mother, Patty Anglin, recalled how disciplined and determined he was even as a child. “The only limbs he ever longed for were wings,” she said, emphasizing his early obsession with flying.

However, the road to the cockpit was fraught with obstacles. When Zach turned 18, he began applying to flight schools, only to be met with rejection after rejection. Over a dozen schools turned him down, unable to see past his physical condition to recognize his potential. But Zach was not deterred. “Obviously, nothing worth having comes easy,” he remarked, acknowledging the challenges that lay ahead.

Breaking Barriers

In 2017, after numerous rejections, Zach finally received an acceptance letter from Spartan College of Aeronautics in Tulsa, Oklahoma. It was a pivotal moment, but his journey was far from over. Zach still needed approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to begin flying lessons. The FAA denied him five times, each rejection a blow to his dream. At one point, Zach nearly gave up, convinced that becoming a pilot was impossible.

But his mother, Patty, refused to let him abandon his dream. She encouraged him to persevere, reminding him that “you can never succeed until you’ve learned to fail.” With renewed determination, Zach continued his fight, persistently calling the FAA until they finally relented, allowing him to take a Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA) test.

The SODA test required Zach to prove that he could operate an aircraft despite his disabilities. On the day of the test, nerves ran high. Failure would mean the end of his dream. But Zach’s hard work, ingenuity, and relentless determination paid off. He passed the test, earning his medical certification and the chance to pursue his passion for flying.

A Flight Instructor with a Purpose

In 2019, Zach Anglin graduated from flight school, making history as the first commercial pilot without hands or feet. But he didn’t stop there. Today, he is a flight instructor at Spartan College, the very school that gave him his chance. He has taught over 200 students, many of whom are inspired by his story and determination.

Zach’s journey has opened doors for others with disabilities who aspire to become pilots. The FAA now refers amputees who apply to flight school to Zach for guidance and mentorship. He recently helped a man from California who was missing an arm to prepare for his SODA test, and that man is now a pilot. “I’m looking forward to showing the world that you can break any barrier you want to, but you’ve got to have faith and determination to do that,” Zach said.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Zach Anglin’s story is not just about overcoming physical limitations; it is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and the human spirit. He has become an advocate and mentor, helping others achieve what once seemed impossible. “My story isn’t just for amputees,” Zach emphasizes. “We all go through trials and tribulations. The word ‘impossible’ is an illusion behind the word ‘possible.'”

Zach’s achievements have been recognized on national platforms, including an appearance on “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” where he shared his journey and inspired millions. He and his wife, Martyana, were even surprised with a honeymoon trip to Mexico by Jennifer Hudson, a small reward for the man who had shown the world that no dream is out of reach.

In a world where many are told to settle for less, Zach Anglin’s life is a powerful reminder that with determination, support, and a refusal to give up, we can all soar above our challenges and achieve our dreams.

In a world where childhood dreams often fade with time, Alice Oladipupo’s story stands as a beacon of hope and determination. At just 23 years old, this young Nigerian woman has accomplished what many only dream of—becoming a lawyer in the United Kingdom. Her journey is not only a testament to her relentless dedication but also a source of inspiration for countless others who dare to dream big.

Alice’s path to success is rooted in a childhood ambition that began as early as eight years old. Growing up in Beckton, East London, Alice was not surrounded by lawyers or legal professionals. Instead, she stumbled upon her dream during a career fair at her primary school. The moment she laid eyes on a barrister at the fair, she was captivated. The image of a young Alice donning a lawyer’s wig, taken by a teacher and pinned up by her mother in her office, became a symbol of her dream. From that day forward, Alice dedicated herself to turning that picture into reality.

“It was so surreal to see that picture of me and to know that I made that little girl proud. I didn’t let her down,” Alice reflected. Her journey, however, was far from easy. After completing her Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree at the University of Surrey, Alice faced a significant financial hurdle. Despite her outstanding academic achievements, she was unable to secure a scholarship for her postgraduate studies. In that moment of despair, her mother, Victoria, stepped in, providing the emotional, spiritual, and financial support that Alice needed to continue her journey.

“I owe my mum everything. She supported me spiritually, emotionally, and financially. She believed that I was capable of becoming a lawyer and didn’t want finances to be the thing that stopped me from achieving my dream,” Alice shared. Thanks to her mother’s unwavering support, Alice was able to pursue a Master of Laws in Bar Vocational Studies at the prestigious City University of London. Click here to continue reading about Alice.

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