Meet Syed
I Am A People Person
“Always be a little kinder than necessary. If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours. Kindness is the language which people who are deaf can hear and people who are blind can see. Kindness is the golden chain by which society is bound together.”
— Syed, Customer Experience Specialist Airports with Air Canada, 5+ years
What about working at the airport do you enjoy the most / what do you love most about your job?
Toronto Pearson is probably one of the best places to work for those who crave meeting new people. You will come in contact with a broad and diverse range of people daily. So if you find different cultures around the world interesting, the airport is the place for you. It is not just a location, it is more like a community. A very dynamic and complex place where every nut and bolt matters in order to create a thriving environment. There's an old saying that once you get the smell of jet fuel, you’ll never leave the airport. And I believe that. Working in aviation is more than just a job. It’s a lifestyle.
Who are some of your biggest inspirations?
Bessie Coleman is one of them. She had a natural fascination with aviation, but when she started applying to American flight schools, they rejected her because she was a black woman. However, that didn’t stop her from doing what she loved! Instead, she went to school in France and became the first black woman to earn an international pilot’s license. After some additional training, in 1922, Bessie went on to do daredevil stunts, and planned to use her earnings to start a school of aviation for African Americans. Sadly, Bessie lost her life after her equipment malfunctioned during one of her stunts. She remains, however, a true inspiration to those embarking upon an aviation job search! Her story is a reminder that industries don’t just change gradually on their own. They change because smart, brave people do something different that changes the game.
What motivates you/gets you up in the morning?
My passion for helping others is what motivates me to get out of bed every day. I feel a sense of accomplishment when I help others, and it's a very rewarding experience. Also, as I grew up, many people helped me to ensure I was safe and successful, so it's important to me that I do the same for others.
Quick Hits
Cats or dogs?
Dogs
Favourite place you've travelled to?
Easy: Japan!
Cottage or camping?
Both, actually
Favourite movie or TV show?
The Terminal
Sporting event or concert?
Concert