Michelle Mayagma Atay took on significant
family responsibilities from a very young age,
balancing the raising of her siblings, with her
studies. Born in the Philippines, she dreamed
of exploring broader opportunities and
courageously moved abroad, seeking growth
beyond her comfort zone. In 2013, Michelle joined
McDonald's UAE as a Manager Trainee, quickly
advancing to 2nd Assistant Manager. She then
moved to the Head Office as Operations Secretary
and is now a Senior Operations Coordinator.
Michelle plays a key role in the Women Leadership
Network, and enjoys travel, music, and spending time
with friends, many of whom are also colleagues.

Rowena Castro, originally from the Philippines,
began her journey with McDonald's UAE in June
2007 as a crew member. Within two months,
she transitioned to the Head Office, taking on
a role as a Department Secretary. With enthusiasm,
professionalism, and teamwork, Rowena thrived,
enhancing the department's administrative
processes with support from her leaders and
colleagues. Her dedication earned her increased
responsibilities and promotions, eventually
becoming a Construction Consultant in 2021.
Rowena believes that passion and excellence can
help overcome challenges, making even the
toughest tasks manageable.

Faruk Ozev, originally from Turkey, joined
McDonald's UAE in January 2007 as a service
crew member. Despite language barriers,
he quickly turned challenges into motivation.
He enhanced his communication skills, and
was promoted to Crew Trainer within five months,
By 2008, he became a Swing Manager, and in 2009,
a Certified Swing Manager. His hard work saw him
rise to 2nd Assistant Manager and later, the youngest
member of a major location's team. In 2012,
he was named Restaurant Manager of the Year,
leading to rapid promotions.
Now, as a Senior Operations Consultant,
he's preparing for his role as Operations Manager.

Darshita Shaholia's journey with McDonald's
began after she moved back to Dubai following
a personal tragedy. Originally from Dubai,
she relocated to India when she married.
However, the sudden loss of her husband
compelled her to return to Dubai to create
a stable future for her two young children.
Darshita demonstrated extreme resilience
by earning an MBA and CMA degree and
joined McDonald's in 2012 and her dedication
and skills led to rapid progression. Now, at the
peak of her career, Darshita co-leads
the Women’s Leadership Network, and
her story of resilience and growth inspires
and empowers everyone she meets.

Mohomed Isfar Ali Mohomed Haider's journey
with McDonald's UAE began in 2005 as a service
crew member. Though he initially faced loneliness
and homesickness, a manager's recognition sparked
newfound motivation, leading to his being named
Crew of the Month. Progressing from crew trainer
to swing manager by 2008, he adapted to every
challenge he faced. By 2013, he advanced to
first assistant and eventually became a
restaurant manager. Over the years,
Mohomed received numerous awards,
including Best Assistant and Best Restaurant
Manager. His story exemplifies resilience,
showing that hard work can lead to incredible
achievements.

Prerna Gurung from Darjeeling India,
originally moved to the UAE in 2010
to join McDonald's UAE. Starting as a
Crew Member, her passion and dedication
led to her promotion to Store Manager by
2021 and her leadership and commitment
earned her recognition as one of the
"Women to Watch" in 2023. Prerna fosters
a welcoming restaurant environment,
embodying McDonald's UAE’s values.
She appreciates the UAE's blend of
modernity and tradition, valuing its diverse,
multicultural setting. Living with her family,
she considers the UAE her second home,
cherishing its hospitality and innovation.