Shahina Helal, transitioning from retail, embraced the cargo industry amidst disparities. With resilience, she spearheaded diversity initiatives, shaping an inclusive workforce. Her advice echoes commitment, adaptability, and a thirst for learning.
Within the bustling realm of cargo and logistics, staying abreast of trends and technologies is paramount
Shahina Helal, Head HR, Celebi Aviation, emerges as an unheralded champion in the logistics realm. Transitioning from telecom and retail, she recognised the pivotal role of supply chain and logistics in post-COVID business landscapes. Her decision to join the cargo industry underscores a visionary pursuit, aligning with sectors poised for transformative impacts. With 18 years of diverse industry experience, Shahina’s journey reflects adaptability and foresight, positioning her as a beacon for navigating the dynamic logistics terrain. Her narrative embodies resilience, shaping a path that intertwines personal growth with industry evolution, marking her as a silent force driving logistical excellence.
Operational adaptation
Amidst transitioning from retail to the cargo industry, Shahina encountered a significant learning curve. While accustomed to retail’s manpower reliance, understanding air cargo and logistics operations posed a new challenge. Leveraging Celebi’s inclusive culture, Shahina swiftly bridged the knowledge gap. Actively engaging in business discussions facilitated the seamless integration of HR practices with operational frameworks. She emphasises resilience and agility as pivotal traits for success in the dynamic cargo industry, highlighting the need for proactive risk management and swift adaptation to market shifts.
Fostering diversity
Shahina emphasises resilience and adaptability crucial in an industry susceptible to external influences
Upon entering the logistics and cargo industry, Shahina Helal’s keen observation highlighted a significant lack of diversity within warehouse operations. Despite managerial acknowledgment of diversity’s positive impact, grassroots resistance persisted. To address this, Shahina focused on reshaping mindsets and establishing role models within the system. Through her active efforts in showcasing successful instances, she directed attention towards enhancing diversity at the forefront of operations. This endeavour has been instrumental in fostering inclusivity and creating a workplace that values and benefits from the contributions of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Trend tracker
Within the bustling realm of cargo and logistics, staying abreast of trends and technologies is paramount. Shahina Helal, entrenched in this dynamic industry, employs strategic engagement with industry leaders and professionals to remain well-informed. Her current role allows collaboration with seasoned business leaders, fostering discussions on emerging trends and innovative practices. Shahina’s commitment extends to continuous professional development through active participation in industry conferences, workshops, and seminars. These endeavours not only offer exposure to cutting-edge advancements but also facilitate invaluable networking opportunities. Shahina’s proactive approach exemplifies how staying ahead in the logistics landscape requires dedication to ongoing learning and collaboration with industry stalwarts.
Dynamic evolution
In Shahina’s perspective, the logistics industry has undergone significant transformations over the years, with time emerging as its critical essence. Since the inception of air cargo movement in India in 1911, there has been substantial advancement in efficiency, technology, reliability, accessibility, integration, and regulations. The primary focus now revolves around ensuring swift and efficient goods delivery, aligning with the industry’s evolution.
Adaptation to these changes necessitates anticipating demands from various stakeholders and optimising delivery processes to remain cost-effective and efficient. Key shifts include the burgeoning e-commerce sector, escalating demand for air cargo capacity, supply chain diversification, and the evolution of air freight into an omnichannel experience. Shahina emphasises the importance of staying attuned to these changes for organisations to thrive in the dynamic logistics landscape. Embracing these shifts ensures organisations can effectively cater to the evolving needs of customers, businesses, and technology, thereby maintaining relevance and competitiveness in the industry.
Harmonising life
Shahina Helal’s approach to life offers a profound insight into balancing work and personal demands. Recognising the peril of perfectionism, she advocates for its release to avoid consuming one’s life. Moreover, she highlights the importance of occasional disconnection from technology, acknowledging its pervasive influence. Shahina’s wisdom lies in her ability to challenge fixed routines, urging introspection for necessary modifications and evolution. Her philosophy exemplifies a harmonious blend of pragmatism and self-awareness, guiding individuals to navigate the intricate dance between professional responsibilities and personal fulfillment. Shahina’s holistic perspective offers a beacon for those seeking equilibrium amidst life’s myriad demands.
Intrinsic insight
Shahina stands as a stalwart figure in the bustling realm of cargo and logistics, generously sharing her wealth of experience and guidance with newcomers venturing into this dynamic industry. With a keen awareness of its ever-evolving nature, Shahina underscores the critical importance of continuous learning. She advises aspiring professionals to stay updated on industry trends, technological advancements, and global regulations to maintain a competitive edge.
Emphasising the indispensability of robust analytical skills, Shahina highlights their pivotal role in navigating the intricate web of data and real-time information prevalent in the sector. Drawing from her own journey, she advocates for the establishment of a strong professional network through active participation in conferences, forums, and mentorship programs. Effective communication, she asserts, is a cornerstone skill indispensable for success in the global marketplace.
Having weathered numerous challenges herself, Shahina emphasises the resilience and adaptability crucial in an industry susceptible to external influences. She encourages individuals to embrace these qualities, utilising them as tools to navigate uncertainties and innovate solutions. Understanding regulatory compliance, both locally and internationally, is paramount for seamless operations, she stresses.
In her mentorship role, Shahina champions diversity and inclusion, recognising their potential to spur innovation by embracing varied perspectives. She urges aspiring professionals to invest in leadership development, seeking mentorship opportunities and training programs to refine their skills. By adhering to these principles, Shahina believes individuals can not only navigate the dynamic landscape of cargo and logistics but also contribute significantly to their organisations, cementing their status as invaluable professionals in the field.
