A Guiding Light: Sahra A. Gelle's Dedication to Her Team and Safety

In the organized chaos of airport operations, Sahra A. Gelle is a steady, guiding force. A supervisor who doesn't just lead but elevates those around her, she sees her role not merely as a job but as a calling.

"When I first arrived in Minneapolis from Canada, I didn’t know anyone. A friend introduced me to aviation. I was planning to start my own business, but before that, I needed work. He said, ‘Come here, apply.’ And that’s how I started. I didn’t expect to love it this much. But once I saw how much of a difference I could make, I knew this was where I belonged."

Five years later, Sahra has become a pillar of her team, winning multiple awards, including the CEO Values Champion and the No Harm Award. Yet, when asked what sets her apart, she is humble. "I don’t just come here to make money. I come to help my people. If they’re struggling, it’s my job to lift them up. If they’re succeeding, it’s my job to celebrate them."

"Every day, I check in on my team. Who needs help? Who’s feeling overwhelmed? Who just needs a cup of tea and a moment to breathe? We drink tea together. We work together. I make sure everyone is okay. It’s not just about the work—it’s about the people."

Communication is a major challenge at her station, where many employees speak Somali and very little English. "I translate, help with shift trades, and bring any concerns to leadership. If someone is struggling, I listen. Sometimes, all someone needs is to be heard."

Her duty manager, Awad I. Abdiwahed, affirms her impact: "She plays a big part in making work easier for everyone. She doesn’t just supervise—she supports. She’s the bridge between leadership and employees, and that’s invaluable."

Sahra is also a vigilant advocate for safety. "I saw a gas leak at a fuel station and made sure no one used it until it was fixed. I noticed a flight attendant shivering on a cold aircraft and brought her hand warmers. I remind my team to check their surroundings, to be careful, to look out for one another. Safety isn’t just a rule—it’s a responsibility."

Awad adds, "Sahra pays attention to the little things. And those little things make a big difference. We’ve had situations where her quick thinking prevented major issues. She’s proactive, not reactive, and that’s what sets her apart."

She also ensures new hires feel supported. "A lot of them get scared at first. They think it’s too much, too fast. But I tell them, ‘This is just the beginning. Give it time.’ I walk them through the cleaning process, introduce them to teammates, and make sure they don’t feel alone. I tell them, ‘I was new once too. Look at me now.’ And that gives them confidence."

For Sahra, the airport isn’t just a workplace—it’s a community. "The culture here is like a big family. We eat together, we drink tea together, just like back home. If you have an issue, we’re here to help. No one should feel alone here."

Sahra’s story is one of strength and dedication, proving that leadership isn’t just about authority—it’s about compassion, support, and making those around you better every day.