Creating a Positive and Inclusive Environment for All
Originally published at Disney Parks News
One of the values that Javier Rossy brings to his role as an Attractions Proprietor at EPCOT is treating others with kindness and compassion – something he has done for 29 years and counting. Over the course of his life, he has encountered many people and cultures that shaped this value system, and he is sharing those same lessons with his cast member family every day.
“I’m a big believer in making the world a better place,” he said. “It’s important to be humble, listening with caring ears and understanding with open eyes. I enjoy developing cast members and providing an environment where they feel empowered to take care of each other and our guests.”
At the age of 15, Javier left his hometown in Puerto Rico to travel to Indiana and Louisiana, where he lived with a variety of families through a high school exchange program. It may seem daunting to embrace new cultures and experiences as a teenager away from home, but Javier loved becoming a member of every family. In doing so, he learned the values that helped define his own meaning of family: being kind, respectful and reliable through both the good and challenging times.
Javier remained on the mainland for college and graduated with a Business Administration degree from Northwestern University. There he learned about the Disney College Program, and his Walt Disney World career began. He has a family of his own, and he passes his values of compassion and kindness to his own children. And, as a leader, he strives to create a positive environment for another important family in his life: the cast members he works with every day.
“My biggest learning through life is being there for people when it counts. I’m always available to my team. I think holidays and traditions are important, but what really counts are the moments you are there for your co-workers, family or friends,” he stated.
And recently, Javier extends his support to the HOLA Berg’s Leadership Team, where he is providing mentorship opportunities to Hispanic and Latinx cast members.
As this year’s Hispanic Latinx Heritage Month draws to a close, Javier’s story is a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and creating an environment where all can flourish. In this way, we can encourage every cast member to be their authentic self each and every day.
