Blessings! My name is Kaleem Santos. I was born in Riverdale, Georgia, and had the pleasure of being raised on the beautiful Island of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. Growing up in the USVI allowed me to appreciate many things, with aviation being at the top of my list. Encouraged by my mom, I enrolled in a local Tuskegee aviation chapter that sparked my love for the field. 

Once I caught the aviation bug, I quickly began my journey on all cylinders. At fifteen, I did my first discovery flight, sixteen first solo, and I obtained my private pilot certificate by age seventeen. 

In 2021, I received a scholarship to the Red Tails Flight Academy, where I have both learned and taught. During my time at Red Tails, I gained various certifications, such as my instrument, commercial multi and single, CFI, and CFII, and accumulated over 1,600 flight hours. Now, I have the pleasure of paying it forward, as I am currently working as an instructor at the Red

Tails Flight Academy.

My passion for aviation has inspired me to explore other interests. In my spare time, I practice Muay Thai, am currently learning Spanish, and have developed a newfound appreciation for reading. I am grateful for the unique experience I have been awarded through the Red Tail Scholarship Foundation.