Ida Adora in being confident, strong and happy in your own skin

16 May 2022By Elna Ismail

Ida Adora Ismail truly embodies #EverydayRoleModel and what it means to be confident, strong and happy in your own skin. In an industry predominantly dominated by men, she overcame societal expectations and beliefs about women's leadership abilities, and became the youngest CEO in the aviation industry.

Rapid Fire: How would you describe yourself and what do you do?

Hi! My name is Ida Adora Ismail. I am 29 years old this year. As an individual I am a passionate, friendly and heart working person. I work in the Aviation Industry here in Malaysia.

Profession wise, I studied Accounting and Corporate Finance in school however I am now helping the family business following my father’s passing in 2020. I am the CEO of Systematic Aviation Services (SAS).

Some people say it's a lot on my shoulders to fill my dad’s shoes, I don't deny that but my job involves working with planes and helicopters and taking me to new places. I have always loved traveling and food, following the aircraft out for work lets me combine my love for traveling and food and work.

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?

It is such a bad habit, but with such a busy lifestyle, I like to use my mornings to go through my emails so I can plan my day ahead. It really is the best time to think as the time is of my own. I also use my mornings for my cats. I have two very cute cats so they get my full attention in the mornings. I would feed them and play with them before I go to work.

What are you most passionate about?

I love cooking and learning to cook local delicacies. I travel a lot because of work, so going to new places and trying new food makes me passionate to come home and try remaking those dishes at home. My mother too loves cooking, so I learn a lot from her.

What part of you that you are most proud of?

My sense of responsibility towards my family and continuing my father’s legacy.

What are you doing to keep yourself busy right now?

Work and traveling.

What are some of the positive changes that you try to implement this year?

To be a lot easier on myself. Filling my dad’s shoes I honestly set the bar so high for myself. Almost 3 years of running his legacy and with Covid pandemic, I was overworking myself. So this year, I choose to be a lot easier on myself and sort of go for a more one thing at a time approach.

What are you most excited about for this year's Eid?

Since our father passed away in January 2020, I have not seen my sisters as they live in Australia. This year, after 2.5 years, all my sisters and I will be in Malaysia celebrating Eid together. Our house will be full again.