Mogadishu (LM) Hani Jayte Adan, 23, was born in Mogadishu in 2002 and completed her high school education in the city. Her journey into the military began in 2019, shaped by personal challenges and a strong desire to make a difference. After facing financial barriers to higher education, including her elder brother’s refusal to support her university fees, Hani found herself at home for a year. This period of inactivity led to stress and weight gain, prompting her to seek a healthier lifestyle.
Inspired by her father’s tragic death at the hands of a militant group in Wadajir in 2011, Hani always dreamed of serving her country.
“My father’s sacrifice drives me to protect what he valued most—our nation,” she reflects. She discovered a military recruitment announcement on a Turkish Facebook page and felt a calling to join. Initially, her mother opposed the idea, but after sharing her intentions and asking for her mother’s prayers, she received her blessing to enlist.
Hani’s military journey began with the decision to enroll in a training course. Despite having no prior knowledge of military life, she embraced the challenge. The training process was intense, with her cohort of 19 girls facing rigorous physical and mental tests. Over 45 days, the group underwent training sessions in both the morning and afternoon. “Strength doesn’t come from what you can do; it comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn’t,” Hani says, reminding herself and her peers of their resilience. While some dropped out, Hani and 10 other determined girls persevered, completing the course together.
As the only female among three who joined the air force, Hani encountered unique challenges. The demanding training environment tested their limits, but despite the discomfort and trials, Hani found solace in the camaraderie of her fellow trainees. “In unity, there is strength,” she notes, emphasizing the importance of support. The supportive campus environment helped her navigate the obstacles, and she gained proficiency in Turkish, in addition to her fluency in Somali and English.
The most rewarding aspect of Hani’s training experience was the sense of accomplishment that came from overcoming adversity. “Every milestone achieved fuels my passion for the Air Force,” she states. Each success, from mastering military tactics to learning a new language, reinforced her commitment to her dream.
Hani prepared for the rigors of military training through a combination of mental fortitude and physical conditioning. She focused on building her strength and endurance while also fostering a resilient mindset. “Preparation is the key to success,” she believes, a mantra that helped her tackle challenges head-on.
Throughout her training, Hani developed crucial skills essential for success in the air force. These include: Gaining confidence to lead and inspire others, Learning to collaborate effectively with diverse teams, Mastering multiple languages to enhance operational effectiveness, and Understanding the importance of structure and commitment in military life.
Hani looks up to Asli Hassan Abade, a fellow pioneer in the air force, as a role model. “Seeing Asli’s achievements motivates me to strive for excellence and pave the way for future generations of women in the military,” she shares.
Ms. Asli Hassan Abade was the first African woman pilot on the entire continent of Africa and the Middle East. She was a military leader, civil activist, and pilot for the Somali Air Force. Up until now, she was the first and only female pilot in the Somali Air Force (SAF). However, Hani Jayte Adan is now in a position to continue the legacy of Asli Hassan, who made history and became a role model for women like Hani.
Hani Jayte Adan’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. As she embarks on her military career, she remains committed to inspiring others and breaking barriers for women in the armed forces. “Dream big, work hard, and never give up,” she advises, embodying the spirit of a true trailblazer.
Written by: Salad Ghedi Ali, CEO/Chief Editor,
Leadership Magazine
