About

As a young child growing up just a few miles away in an impoverished area near Opa Locka Airport in Miami, Israel Velez would be playing outside and watch planes in their approach to landing over his home. “I always thought ‘how cool would it be to fly, but that’s for other people, not my kind,” says Israel.

It was never a serious interest until years into successful business ownership. “I started to look for ways to escape the 9-5, to start a new hobby and explore areas of limitlessness.” After an air show and diving into the internet, Israel decided to go for his Private Pilot’s License (PPL). Throughout the process of ground school and flight training, he purchased his first plane and realized how accessible aviation can be. “My first feeling in the air while in training, was a deep conviction that this euphoric feeling of flying the skies should be made possible to everyone, girls and boys of every color. Aviation, much like music, is a gift to mankind and we should all be able to enjoy it if we desire it”

So, he became an avid promoter of piloting and aviation.

As a proud US born Colombian-Puerto Rican, Israel also noticed the lack of minorities in the aviation industry, as well as the need for talent in an expanding industry. After a summer of flying with his wife, Ruth, and their children, and their joined passion for job creation and helping those in need with career opportunities, the vision for Diversifly was born. Ruth says, “having been both raised as Pastor’s kids and a lifestyle of helping and caring for others, Israel and I are natural networkers. Our dream is to open doors and create connections between those experienced in aviation that have a heart to empower others and those that truly want to learn and succeed in this industry.”

“If we can enjoy the amazing and growing world of aviation, so can others,” says Israel. “Aviation is truly something for all.”