Life-Changing Graduation of SEDRA Foundation Interns at Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, U.A.E., July 18, 2024 – Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi is delighted to announce the successful graduation of Ahmed Ebrahim Mawed and Abdallah Mohammed Al Ramahi from a 6-month Inclusive Internship and Employment Program, facilitated by Abu Dhabi-based non-profit organization, SEDRA Foundation.

Abdallah distinguished himself in the housekeeping department, where his unwavering dedication and enthusiasm profoundly impacted our team and guests. Ahmed, whose placement was in the culinary department, demonstrated remarkable creativity and social growth, as he worked with precision and excitement.

The graduation ceremony of Abdallah, affectionately known as "Abood," was a heartfelt event attended by his proud parents, who shared their experiences as part of SEDRA’s IIEP program.? They spoke of their initial uncertainty about Abdallah’s future until they discovered SEDRA Foundation, which has since become a source of support and provides various opportunities for the whole family. Witnessing his transformation has been life changing, filling them with renewed optimism and immense joy in their son's achievements.

Ahmed’s journey has been equally transformative. Initially reserved, he found a supportive environment at the 5-star hotel and within the culinary department, where he developed both socially and creatively. Through SEDRA’s structured guidance and the encouragement of his colleagues, Ahmed refined his skills and built confidence, establishing professional connections, mastering techniques that demonstrate his talent and dedication.

Georges Abi Aad, General Manager of Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, spoke passionately about the iconic hotel’s engagement with SEDRA Foundation, stating, "Our partnership with SEDRA reflects our commitment to embracing diversity and inclusivity.” He emphasized, "By integrating individuals from varied backgrounds into our workforce, we aim to highlight the transformative influence within the hospitality industry and beyond, aspiring to lead by example in promoting equal opportunity for all."

“Celebrating the graduation of Abdallah and Ahmad from SEDRA’s Inclusive Internship and Employment Program?(IIEP) is a win on so many levels as it is based on a multi-layered participatory model, fully supportive of all stakeholders. We are proud of Ahmed and Abdallah for putting in the hard work and effort to upskill themselves towards finding long-term employment. We also celebrate the support of their family, and team of Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi for their commitment towards continuous growth in co-creating an inclusive hospitality industry,” Reem Al Fahim, CEO of SEDRA.

Reflecting on Abdallah and Ahmed's journey, Sheila Leus, Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi‘s Director of Human Resources, highlighted, “Their accomplishments are more than just personal victories; they are a powerful testament of our commitment to nurturing talent, cultivating meaningful opportunities and grooming future leaders. They inspire us to create an environment where every individual can thrive and leverage on their distinct talents. Both gentlemen's experiences have inspired the entire hotel team.”

As the 5-star property celebrates Abdallah's and Ahmed’s graduations, the hotel looks forward to the continued positive impact they will undoubtedly bring to the world, with their resilience, and determination.

About SEDRA Foundation

“Together, Towards a Barrier Free, Inclusive & Sustainable Society.”

SEDRA Foundation for Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities is a UAE inclusion hub, based in Abu Dhabi chaired and founded by H.H. Sheikha Aljazia Bint Saif Al Nahyan.

SEDRA provides consultancy and community services on all aspects of accessibility and inclusion for the public and private sectors. This includes Accessibility Audits, Disability Rights Awareness Trainings, technical assistance, and inclusive services design. As a trusted accessibility and inclusion partner, SEDRA works closely with partners supporting their transformational journey towards an inclusive mindset driving positive, sustainable societal shifting change.

SEDRA’s open dynamic systems approach co-creates heart-mind nurturing and capacity-building programs to educate, employ, and empower toward Leaving No One Behind.

SEDRA is aligned in letter and spirit with the directives and objectives of the UAE Centennial Plan 2071, Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, Abu Dhabi POD Inclusion Strategy, the National Policy for the Empowerment of People of Determination and The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and Sustainable Development Goals 2030.

For more information about SEDRA programs and services, please call +971 2 666 0522 or visit SEDRA Foundation’s website at www.sedra.org.

Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi is located within the Abu Dhabi Central Business District, steps away from the mesmerizing Corniche Beach and a 14-minute drive to Mamsha Al Saadiyat. For additional information about Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, or to reserve your stay, please call +971 02 674 2020 or visit Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi’s website at?www.leroyalmeridienabudhabi.com. Follow the hotel on Facebook and Instagram, and join the conversation using #DestinationUnlocked.

About Le Méridien? Hotels & Resorts

Born in 1960’s Paris during an era of glamorous travel,?Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts?continues to celebrate cultures around the world through the distinctly European spirit of savouring the good life.?? With over 115 hotels and resorts in more than 35 countries and territories, spanning from Maldives to Monaco and from Santa Monica to Sichuan, Le Méridien’s engaging mid-century designed spaces coupled with chic signature programmes put a playful twist on art,?coffee,?sparkling cocktails,?summer,?family,?and inspire creative-minded travellers to explore the world in style. For more information, please visit www.lemeridien.com, and stay connected on?Facebook,?Instagram, and?Twitter. Le Méridien?is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy?, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

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