Throughout this year we are shining a spotlight on those in our community in Islington who go above and beyond to make the borough more equal and inclusive. We speak to Omar, one of the recipients of the Mayor’s Civic Awards about his role at Islington Air Cadets

How did you feel about receiving the Mayor’s Civic Award?

I am proud to get recognition for my efforts at the squadron, but I see the award more for the squadron as a whole and the growth we have had. We have come from nearly closing back in 2018 to becoming a prominent squadron in London.

I also enjoyed seeing the other nominees and winners. It was inspiring to see recognition for these incredible people who volunteer their time to these important causes.

What do you do with Islington Air Cadets?

I am a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer at 9F Islington Squadron, in the role of Training Officer. This means I’m responsible for the cadet’s training during their time at the squadron.

What is the most fulfilling aspect of your role?

I am really lucky to be part of an organisation where I get to spend so much time with the cadets and can help them develop and grow. Being part of their development feels extremely rewarding.

What do you most appreciate about being part of the Islington community?

Islington is an incredibly diverse borough in every aspect, in very few boroughs are you able to meet people from all walks of life.

What are the kind of activities the cadets get involved in?

RAF Air Cadets are involved in a wide range of activities aimed at fostering leadership, teamwork, and aviation knowledge. From flying experiences in gliders and powered aircraft to marksmanship training and fieldcraft exercises, cadets gain a huge number of practical skills.

Cadets can also take part in drill and ceremonial duties, adventure training such as camping and rock climbing, and earn qualifications on space, aerospace, first aid and leadership.

What skills do you think they gain from the experience of being an Air Cadet?

Being an Air Cadet is a brilliant experience that helps young people develop so many valuable skills. From leadership and teamwork to communication and problem-solving, cadets learn to navigate various challenges, whether it’s in the air, on the ground, or within their community.

Discipline and confidence are instilled through drill practice, while a foundational understanding of aerospace and the RAF provides insight into potential future careers.

Physical fitness, resilience, and social skills round out the package, helping cadets come out of the organisation with a well-rounded skill set ready for whatever paths they choose to pursue in their lives.

If people are interested in joining the Air Cadets, where could they find out more information, or even speak to someone already involved?

To learn more about joining the Air Cadets and to speak with someone directly involved, you can visit the official RAF website and use the ‘Find a Squadron’ feature.

Here, you’ll find contact details for local squadrons where you can get answers to your questions and more information about the programme. If you are local to Islington, 9F (Islington) Squadron is based on Parkhurst Road and operates two recruitment phases a year.

For more information about Air Cadets visit the RAF website or contact adj.9@rafac.mod.gov.uk.