I was a model before moving to London and within three months, I joined Accor as a Front Office team member. Then I got the opportunity to move into Talent and Culture; I had HR experience in India but wasn’t sure I could translate that into working in the UK.

However, I got the job and that taught me that sometimes you need one opportunity and someone to believe in you – Accor did that. I hadn’t even completed my probation period when I applied!

Even though hospitality was never my first career choice, so far it has been a great learning experience. I have worked with diverse people, have become involved in a variety of projects and contributed to important social initiatives. One of the most rewarding parts has been supporting employees when they join and seeing them grow and progress, both within and beyond Accor. Seeing that I can play a part in other people’s career is incredibly satisfying.

I love that no two days are the same and that excites me. Hospitality is a fast paced and diverse environment and gives you the opportunity to serve guests from around the world in different Accor brands. I have also learned so much about customer service, brand standards and sustainability, and these skills have helped me personally as well as professionally.

For example, when I came to London, I did not know how to cook. I would always run away from F&B, which meant knowing the right cutlery, how to give service properly, food – allergens and the ingredients we use; customers’ needs have changed so much. Many places give service but you need to maintain the quality.

I would recommend hospitality to anyone who enjoys a fast paced environment, likes to multitask, and meet different people. In this sector, you can learn continuously, develop new skills, take on new challenges, and progress your career; you can learn, perform and grow.

I heard the word Heartist® for first time when I joined Accor and it took on a meaning; it means being yourself, bringing your personality to work and genuinely enjoying what you do. I think hospitality has the power to transform personalities – both our own and those around us. When we work from the heart, we create significant experiences for others and grow ourselves as well.

One of my proudest moments was getting the opportunity to move into Talent and Culture in Accor. Coming from India, I knew it could be challenging to move into HR in the UK. The laws are different and from the moment I started here, I had to learn UK employment law. In India, we don’t have a similar employment law; it is less structured.

I have come so far and learnt so much, meeting people of many cultures; it’s valuable, tangible knowledge. And when Accor encouraged me to complete my CIPD qualification, that told me that the company invests in people and their professional growth. Both are milestones in my career that I’m proud of.

My advice to newcomers is bring your personality to work – be yourself, stay curious and always take an opportunity, even if you feel you’re not ready. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; I have realised they are part of learning and growing. Hospitality gives so many opportunities to develop your skills and career, so step outside your comfort zone, learn from experience and believe in yourself.