Gopika Govind's inspiring journey: Daughter of daily wage worker defies all odds, becomes first tribal air hostess from Kerala

"When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it", Paulo Coelho wrote in his bestseller 'The Alchemist'. And, Gopika Govind 's journey of making her dreams of becoming an air hostess true is one such story of grit and determination.


Meet Gopika Govind, a woman from Kerala who has has etched her name in history by becoming the state's first tribal woman to work as an air hostess— an inspiring achievement that marks both a personal triumph and a proud milestone for Kerala.


Born in the ST colony of Kavunkudi near Alakkode in Kerala, Gopika grew up in a humble home. Her parents, P. Govindan and V.G., worked as daily wage laborers. As a member of the Karimbala tribal community, Gopika’s childhood was shaped by financial struggles and limited opportunities. Yet, even amid hardship, she did not give up on her childhood dream of becoming an air hostess.


However, her journey of fulfilling her dreams was not so smooth. The financial constraints of her family pushed her to choose a more practical path, and Gopika pursued a BSc in Chemistry, since it was more affordable and accessible. But all this while, she did not give up on her dreams.


A year after graduating, Gopika landed a job —but a newspaper image of cabin crew in crisp uniforms reignited her childhood dream of flying. Motivated once again, she discovered a government-supported aviation course and seized the opportunity to enroll in a one-year diploma at Dream Sky Aviation Training Academy in Kalpetta, Wayanad. Before her course completed, Gopika began attending interviews. Though she wasn’t selected on her first attempt, she remained undeterred. Her persistence paid off on her second try. And after three months of training, Gopika finally boarded her first flight as a cabin crew member— from Kannur to a Gulf destination. That moment wasn’t just a professional milestone for her— it was a symbol of perseverance, hope, and inspiration for countless young girls from tribal and underprivileged communities.


Sharing her message to young girls who have big dreams in life, just like her, Gopika Govind told Manorama Online, “If you have a dream, pursue it fearlessly. You should also have the confidence to achieve it. Without that we will reach nowhere. Don’t announce to the world about your goals or your pursuit. Let the results talk for yout hard work."


Truly then, the sky is the limit for Gopika Govind!