Portsmouth teenager's dream comes true as she spends a day learning to be a Virgin Atlantic cabin crew member
A teenager from Portsmouth has seen her dream to join the Virgin Atlantic crew made a reality - after her mum commented on a social media post by Sir Richard Branson.
Jessica Richards, 13 from Portsmouth, was treated to a once-in-a-lifetime experience where she spent the day as a Virgin Atlantic crew member, and even got her own set of wings, in a trip to the company’s training centre at CAE London Gatwick.
The youngster spent the day trying on the iconic red uniform and exploring training rigs before attending a wings ceremony, before receiving s surprise video message from Holly Branson.
It all came about after Jessica’s parents ommented on a social media post from Virgin Group founder, Sir Richard Branson. They mentioned Jessica’s dyslexia condition, which Sir Richard also has, and her dream of working for Virgin when she is older.
Jessica said: “I’ve wanted to be part of Virgin Atlantic’s cabin crew since I flew with them when I was eight years old because they were so kind to us.
“I’d love to do that for other people and help make their journeys special, and wearing the Virgin Atlantic uniform today made me feel so confident.”
Holly Branson, chief vision officer at Virgin Group said: “Jessica’s story is a lovely reminder of the power of dreaming big. I hope this experience has brought her one step closer to becoming Virgin Atlantic crew, we’d love to welcome her onboard one day.”
Posting on LinkedIn about her daughter’s experience, mother Helen Richards added: “They loved her and we’re so proud of the kind, beautiful person she is. She’s been promised ongoing support to fulfil her ambition.
“An amazing company, people and a great day for her; everyone we met were so welcoming and smiley - exactly how a company should be.”