Tamilla Suleyman
Tamilla (TamillaS) Suleyman is a seasoned legal and aviation professional, currently serving as Cargo Claims Manager at Atlas Air. With a Master of Laws and a Ph.D., she brings extensive expertise in liability analysis, contract review, and conflict resolution to the aviation industry. Tamilla has held leadership roles at SILK WAY AIRLINES USA, INC., where she established and led the Claims and Suggestions Division, demonstrating her ability to navigate complex legal and operational challenges while fostering a culture of integrity and excellence. Fluent in Azerbaijani, Russian, and English, she leverages her multilingual skills to enhance communication and collaboration across diverse teams and stakeholders.
Throughout her career, Tamilla has combined legal acumen with practical experience, having worked as a Law Clerk at the University of Houston Immigration Clinic. There, she managed multiple high-stakes immigration cases, including asylum and U-visa filings, honing her analytical, documentation, and negotiation skills. Notably, she successfully managed a decade-long asylum case that led to permanent residency for her client, underscoring her dedication to justice and impactful advocacy. She also holds multiple international certifications in aviation law, reflecting her commitment to excellence and continuous professional development.
Beyond her professional achievements, Tamilla is deeply committed to mentorship, volunteering, and personal growth. She has supported aspiring U.S. citizens through naturalization application assistance and values quiet reflection, travel, and music as sources of inspiration. Driven to inspire others—particularly young women—her story embodies perseverance, purpose, and the transformative power of education and dedication. Her journey from overcoming the challenges of transitioning from civil to common law to balancing family, work, and rigorous academic programs serves as a testament to her resilience and passion for making a meaningful impact.
• University of Houston - LLM
• BakerRipley
• YMCA/Houston Texas
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, resilience, and determination. I strive to be the best version of myself, understanding that growth matters more than perfection. Balancing multiple jobs, pursuing my education, and managing family responsibilities has taught me the importance of perseverance and time management. Above all, I am committed to lifelong learning and continuous professional growth, which drives me to improve and excel every day.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to focus on growth rather than perfection. I’ve learned that I don’t have to be flawless to succeed—I just need to keep learning, improving, and never give up. This mindset has helped me navigate challenges, embrace opportunities, and continue progressing in my career.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be resilient—this field can be complex and demanding. Work hard, even when recognition isn’t immediate, and pursue your passion, whether that lies in law, aviation, or both. Most importantly, let your story inspire others, especially if you’ve overcome challenges along the way. Your journey can be a powerful example for those who follow.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
In my field, one of the biggest challenges is managing a high volume of cargo claims under tight deadlines while balancing the need to protect the company legally and maintain customer satisfaction. Navigating complex international laws and aviation conventions also requires careful attention and expertise. At the same time, these challenges present exciting opportunities. I get to merge legal knowledge with aviation operations, build a career in a highly specialized and evolving field, and use my expertise to educate and inspire the next generation of aviation law professionals.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are integrity and fairness, particularly when balancing company interests with customer rights. I prioritize empathy, especially in helping others navigate complex systems, and I strive for excellence through persistence in everything I do. I am also committed to inspiring younger generations, serving as a role model for those who are seeking guidance and encouragement in their own journeys.
Locations
Atlas Air
Cutler Bay, FL 33189