During the Service Awards 2019, on November 20th and 21st, Disneyland Paris honored cast members celebrating 10, 15, 20, 25 or 30 years in the company.
“You can design and create, and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it takes people to make the dream a reality.” Walt Disney believed that California’s Disneyland Resort never could have existed without the support of its cast members.
Today, his tradition of recognition and gratitude continues throughout The Walt Disney Company, thanks to a one-of-a-kind night organized to celebrate our Cast Members and their commitment.
In order to symbolize each of these milestones, they receive a (handmade) bronze statue according to their years of seniority. Cast Members celebrating their first and fifth year in the company are also part of the Service Award program and are given a pins to add on their name tags.
This year, 1,346 Disneyland Paris Cast Members celebrated their 10th, 15th, 20th, 25th or 30th year in the company during two fantastic galas on November 20th and 21st, 2019.
Meet two Cast Members who celebrated their years of service at Disneyland Paris during the 2019 Service Awards ceremony
Veronica Esteve Lucas started her career at Disneyland Paris 10 years ago. Originally from Spain, Veronica has held various positions across the company in Entertainment, Merchandise, Ticketing and Park Operations.
How long have you been with the company?
I started my career at Disneyland Paris in March 2009 with a temporary contract at Walt Disney Studios Park.
What do you like most about your job?
What I like most about working at Disneyland Paris is supporting my fellow Cast Members and encouraging the team spirit which makes for a great guest experience. As a Team Leader, I am on site to help our teams provide the best response for every circumstance to optimize the guest experience. I think it is important to collaborate with and challenge my fellow Cast Members to reach our goals in the most efficient way.
What does it mean to you to be recognized by this award with this bronze statuette?
I’m happy to be among my peers during this celebration of our investment in the company. These 10 years, full of encounters and diverse experiences, shaped me, and it is a pleasure to celebrate this event. [/vc_column_text]
Ernest Straba, originally from Overseas Departments and Territories, started his career at Disneyland Paris even before the opening of the first park. His outstanding career goes three decades! Discover his unique career in the Technical Support division below.
How long have you been with the company?
I have been working at Disneyland Paris for 30 years, since April 1st, 1989. I started as a Custodial Team Leader and have since worked across the resort in a variety of roles.
What do you like most about your job?
In my job, I oversee the assembly and disassembly of the events which take place throughout the resort which gives me the opportunity to discover and try new things all the time. Not only do I keep an eye on the magic that happens backstage, but I get to meet new people during all these events and learn new things every day.
What does it mean to you to be recognized by this award with this bronze statuette?
This event represents, to me, the recognition of the years spent as a part of the company. It is a special day when, as Cast Members, we are put into the spotlight. It is our night.