JAMAICAN-BORN Barrington Irving was yesterday presented with a resolution by the United States Congress, in recognition of his feat in becoming the youngest and first black pilot to fly solo around the globe.

Barrington Irving during his visit to Jamaica last year. (Observer file photo)

The resolution was passed unanimously by Congress in December, several months after Irving completed his 27-day 26,800-mile flight in June. The resolution encourages initiatives like Irving's non-profit organisation, Experience Aviation, which encourages underprivileged youths to seek careers in the aviation and aerospace industries.

"Barrington Irving is one of the greatest young heroes of our time," said Representative Alcee L Hastings.

"When the younger generation is looking for a role model and hero, they need to look no further than Barrington Irving," added Representative Kendrick Meek. "This young pilot proved that when you dream big dreams and work hard, the extraordinary is possible."

Born in Kingston, Jamaica and raised in innercity Miami, Irving said his motivation behind the flight was to inspire innercity and minority youths to pursue their dreams in life, no matter their current circumstances.

He is now offering hands-on educational programmes for students at his Experience Aviation Learning Centre in Miami.

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