Jelena Kazi Career Highlight

I still remember the day I stepped foot on Carnival Elation back in 2005, fresh-faced and ready for an adventure of a lifetime. Little did I know that this journey would not only shape my career but also lead me to love and a world of endless possibilities.

Starting off in the restaurant department, I was thrilled to dive into the fast-paced world of hospitality. Every day brought new challenges, but I thrived on the energy and excitement that permeated the ship. I had the opportunity to meet people from all corners of the globe, each with their unique stories and perspectives. The cultural exchange was a constant source of inspiration, broadening my horizons and igniting my curiosity.

But what I hadn’t anticipated was that amidst the bustling corridors, I would find something even more precious. Love, as they say, has a funny way of finding you when you least expect it. And it did. On that ship, amidst the ebb and flow of passengers and crew, I met my soulmate, my husband. Together, we embarked on a shared journey, supporting and uplifting each other through the highs and lows that life on the ship brought our way.

In 2011, a new chapter beckoned, and we found ourselves in Miami, eagerly searching for fresh opportunities. It was a time of uncertainty, but I firmly believed that new beginnings held the potential for greatness. And then, like a blessing from above, in 2012 I was granted the opportunity of a lifetime—a Scheduler position with Global Casino Operations. The stars seemed to align as I joined this incredible organization.

I poured my heart and soul into every task, every responsibility entrusted to me. With each passing day, I learned, I grew, and I honed my skills. The support and guidance from my leaders were invaluable. They saw my potential and believed in me, pushing me to reach new heights.

The path to success was not without its obstacles, but I met each challenge head-on, fueled by determination and resilience. As a Casino Personnel Supervisor, I discovered the immense joy of guiding and empowering others, seeing them flourish under my guidance. The transition to Casino Personnel Manager brought even greater responsibility, where I learned to balance the needs of the team and the organization, striving for excellence on all fronts.

My areas of responsibility expanded and encompassed Recruitment and Payroll, allowing me to reach the position of Senior Manager. The exhilaration of leading a team, driving growth, and creating positive change was beyond words. And now, as a Director of Global Casino HR Operations, I find myself in a position to shape the future, to inspire and uplift others as I was once inspired.

None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of my leadership and the incredible team that surrounded me. Together, we weathered storms, celebrated victories, and fostered an environment of collaboration and camaraderie. They say teamwork makes the dream work, and I couldn’t agree more. Their dedication and passion fueled my own, propelling us forward on this remarkable journey.

As I look back on my career, I am humbled by the experiences, the people, and the growth I’ve encountered along the way. It is my greatest desire to inspire and engage my fellow colleagues, on ship and shore, with this story. To remind them that dreams can be realized, that love and passion can intertwine with our professional lives, and that with the right support and a great team, there are no limits to what we can achieve.

So, to all those standing at the crossroads of their own journeys, I urge you to embrace the unknown, to seek out opportunities, and to trust in your abilities. The road may be winding, but it is in the twists and turns that we discover who we truly are. Believe in yourself!