Tracy Atobatele is a distinguished aviation professional with over 13 years of multifaceted experience in the industry. Her career spans roles such as VIP flight attendant for private jet charter airlines, private jet charter broker, and FAA-certified commercial multi- and single-engine pilot. In addition, she is a certified flight instructor, advanced ground instructor, instrument ground instructor, and licensed drone pilot. Tracy is currently part of the Falcon 900 program at CAE.
Beyond her aviation accomplishments, Tracy is the founder of Rita & Nathan, a bespoke African print shoe brand established in 2016 in Lagos, Nigeria. Originally created to support her flight training financially, the business has grown into a passion-driven venture. Proceeds from Rita & Nathan are dedicated to supporting healthcare needs for children aged 0–10 in Nigeria
Tracy is also the founder of a charitable foundation honoring her late parents, Rita and Nathan Atobatele. Through this foundation, she advances her commitment to social impact. She further established African Aviators in Diaspora, an organization promoting aviation awareness and opportunities across Africa, the United States, and the broader diaspora. The organization currently boasts 125 members and 25 active mentees. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Science from the University of Lagos, Nigeria. Tracy is a devoted mother to a remarkable three-year-old.
Tracy speaks exclusively to Sunday Oyinloye, Publisher, Green Savannah Diplomatic Cable about the journey of her life.
Excerpts:
What was your growing up like?
Growing up in a household with three siblings and two loving parents was a true blessing. My dad, a dedicated pastor for as long as I can remember, was deeply committed to raising us in a Godly way. He instilled in us strong values and discipline, while my mum, ever nurturing, intentional, and incredibly loving, created a warm and supportive home. My childhood was full of adventure. I had amazing friends, but none closer than my buddy Shedrach—we were inseparable, always running around and exploring the world together. Despite my quiet and shy nature, I carried within me big hopes and dreams. I was always excited about what the future held, even if I didn’t yet know exactly what it would look like.
Did you ever dream of becoming a pilot as a kid?
When I was about eight years old, I saw a clip of a female Nigerian pilot. It was fascinating, but at that age, becoming a pilot wasn’t even on my radar. My heart was set on something else entirely. I dreamed of becoming a veterinarian and owning a huge farm, the kind with cozy cottages straight out of an Enid Blyton book. I imagined myself surrounded by all kinds of animals—horses, dogs, goats, maybe even a few exotic ones. I’ve always loved animals deeply. To me, they’ve always felt like one of the greatest gifts God gave us—pure, loyal, and full of life. That dream of a peaceful farm filled with animals was my idea of the perfect life back then.
What challenges did you encounter growing up?
Looking back, I realize how blessed my childhood was. I didn’t really encounter any major challenges growing up. I was genuinely happy, surrounded by amazing siblings and cousins who made life fun and full of laughter. We weren’t wealthy, but we had what truly mattered—love, joy, and a sense of togetherness. One thing I really appreciate now is that I didn’t get everything I wanted as a kid—and I’m glad for that. It taught me to be content with what I had, and more importantly, it taught me how to go after the things I wanted with determination. That balance shaped me. I’ve learned how to work hard for what I want, but I’m also deeply satisfied by the little things in life. I’m good—because I’ve seen how beautiful life can be even without excess.
You started as a VIP Flight Attendant; at what point did you decide to train as a Pilot?
I started out as a VIP flight attendant—not just because it brought me closer to my ultimate goal, but also because it was something I genuinely wanted to do. From day one, I pushed myself to be excellent at it. I didn’t see it as just a stepping stone; I saw it as a role that deserved my full effort, my professionalism, and my passion. One thing I always say is this: Don’t take up any role—no matter how short-lived—and do it half-assed. Whatever you put your hands to, do it well. That mindset shaped how I approached the job, and it’s something I carry with me in every stage of my journey.
Each time you fly, what goes through your mind?
Freedom, contentment, and fulfillment
What does it take to be a pilot?
Discipline, focus, mental and emotional strength, continuous learning, leadership and communication, Physical and medical fitness, time and financial investment, passion and purpose
Tell me the story of your shoe making business?
Where Passion Meets Purpose. And Every Step Counts. I didn’t start making shoes because it was a lifelong dream. I started because I needed a way to support myself through flight training. It was about survival, about hustle, about making ends meet while chasing a sky-high dream. But as the years went by, something unexpected happened—I fell in love with the craft. What began as a way to stay afloat became a calling. The more I created, the more I saw what Rita&Nathan could become—not just a sneaker brand, but a symbol; a statement and a story. Now, Rita&Nathan is about more than sneakers. It’s about meaning. We use bold African prints to honor where we come from. We pour excellence into every pair to reflect who we are. And we give back with every sale, so more newborns in underserved communities get the chance to go home.
What advice do you have for African young ladies?
Keep believing, dreaming, praying and stay consistent
What is your big dream?
To make heaven
Are you in anyway giving back to the community?
Asides from what my shoe business does for the newborns, I also started something that means just as much to me as the brand: a collective of some of the most talented, passionate African pilots and aspiring aviators around the world. Nearly 150 members strong, this group exists to do one thing—grow aviation in Africa and among Africans in the diaspora. We mentor, we support, we inspire, we dream together. – African Aviators in Diaspora
