The Sedona chapter of the Ninety-Nines International Organization of Women Pilots has announced the winner of its first joint scholarship opportunity with Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 952 in Cottonwood.
The $3,000 award is based on achieving various milestones, including first solo, passing the written exam and passing the private pilot checkride.
The scholarship winner, 16-year-old Matreiya Viafora, flies out of the Sedona Airport with Untethered Aviation and has completed over 24 hours of flight time. Her passion for aviation began at 14 with her first flight lesson, and she has already flown various aircraft, including an Aeroprakt, Cessna and Piper. Her goal is to become a professional airline pilot and a female leader in aviation. Once she graduates high school, she plans on earning her advanced ratings while pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
Matrieya is also involved in community service — she volunteers at food banks, assists with the EAA Chapter 952 Young Eagles Program, leads school initiatives including the Student Disciplinary Committee and Student Liaison program and spearheaded a service group at her school called “Coats for Kids” that brought new coats to elementary students on the Hopi reservation.
The Sedona 99s earn money for scholarships through raffle ticket sales, hosting a silent auction during Wings and Wheels at Sedona Airport and philanthropic donations. The next exciting event will be a showing of the movie “Amelia” at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre on July 24, Amelia Earhart’s birthday. Mark your calendars.
For more information on becoming a member of the 99s or to purchase $5 raffle tickets for the 2025 raffle, in which the winner can receive up to $500, contact SedonaNinetyNines@gmail.com or (928) 421-3620.
