Majeda

Meet our M-Explorers

We interviewed Majeda, an HR Operations Partner, about her career at MEININGER Hotels. She shared the challenges she faced in her job search due to her disability, her early days at MEININGER, and the valuable experiences she gained along the way. 

Let’s start! Who’s Majeda outside of work?

After work, I enjoy listening to music, swimming, meeting friends and family, and just relaxing. I also have a few regular appointments during the week. 

What did you do before joining MEININGER Hotels?

From 2005 to 2017, I attended Biesalski School in Berlin-Zehlendorf, completing elementary, secondary, and vocational school, where I earned my vocational qualifications. Then, from 2018 to 2022, I trained as an office management clerk at the Annedore-Leber Vocational Training Center.

How did you get to your current position, and when did you first hear about MEININGER Hotels?

I came to MEININGER Hotels through Diana, our former HR Director who visited the Annedore-Leber Vocational Training Center and received my application. At that time, I was unemployed after many rejections; it was really hard to find a suitable job because of my disability. 

Could you tell us more about your role in the HR team? What does a typical day look like for you? 

My main tasks include checking sick leave notifications, creating and editing certificates, and maintaining personnel and exit files. Additionally, I support the Operations Partners and hotel managers. I have taken on many different responsibilities. 

What’s the most challenging part of your job, and how do you deal with it? 

My biggest challenge is my speech impairment. Some days, I struggle with getting stuck on certain words, stuttering, or not being able to express myself clearly. When this happens, I repeat the words multiple times. If that doesn’t work, I write them down. I have no trouble with writing, I’m very good at it. 

How would you describe your team and the internal culture at MEININGER Hotels? What do you think makes the company special? 

Here, you feel that everyone is truly welcome—no matter where you come from or what challenges you face. My team has always treated me in a way that makes my disability seem irrelevant. Of course, there are certain tasks that I can’t take on because of my disability, but that was clear from the start. I’ve been open with my team about my weaknesses, and they’ve always respected that.

How has MEININGER Hotels supported you as a person with a disability? Could you give specific examples of how your colleagues make your workday easier? 

My manager Tobias and I are in constant contact. For example, if I can’t reach certain folders because they’re placed on high shelves, I prepare all the required files and then ask my colleagues to put them in the corresponding folders. I believe communication is key! 

Is there anything else you wish for in terms of accessibility or support for employees with disabilities? 

The entrance doors at the headquarters in Berlin aren’t ideal for me. They’re heavy and hard to open, so I can’t get into the building on my own. On many days, I rely on help. It would be perfect if the doors opened automatically. 

If you could organize any team-building activity, no matter how big or elaborate, what would it be? 

I’d love a team trip to visit our hotels in different cities. I enjoy sharing my experiences and inspiring others—like when I presented my career journey at the Annedore-Leber Vocational Training Center to motivate trainees. My manager Tobias supports me in these opportunities.  

What motivates you to give your best every day, and where do you see yourself at MEININGER Hotels in the future? 

Having been unemployed for a long time and facing challenges in the job market due to my disability, I really value work. I’ve had many setbacks and sometimes lost hope of finding a job. To stay motivated, I remind myself that I never want to go back to that place of uncertainty. At MEININGER Hotels, I’m open to new opportunities and believe in taking things one step at a time! 

Thanks for sharing your insights, Majeda! 

✨ Read more M-Explorers’ stories on the MEININGER Hotels blog or check out our job openings.