In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we’re proud to share another YAI employment success story.

 

Tanuja Sursen couldn’t be happier in her position at Old Navy. She was recently named Employee of the Month at the store in the Green Acres Mall in Long Island.

 

The leader of the fitting room, Tanuja ensures that the fittings rooms are clean, organized and secure. She’s also the go-to person for training new employees for the area.

 

“I feel great,” Tanuja said of the recognition. “They see how hard I work and what I accomplish at the store.”

 

Ghita Oukili, her YAI Employment Training Specialist, said the feedback from the store’s management is always positive.

 

Always Smiling and Working Hard

 

“Tanuja’s always smiling, folding clothing or hanging items up,” Ghita said. “She helps customers get different sizes and she works nicely with her colleagues.”

 

That smile and strong work ethic makes her a big part of the store’s team.

 

“Tanuja has always shown her passion for Old Navy and particularly in the fitting room,” said Stacey L. Engebrethson, the store’s general manager. “There is not a day that goes by that Tanuja does not have a smile on her face or is putting her best foot forward. On top of her regular brand associate duties, Tanuja is a vital part of the training process when we are hiring new employees. Tanuja takes her time explaining the importance of the fitting room and what the expectation is. Tanuja understands the brand vision and is constantly pushing herself to learn and increase her skill set every day!”

 

Embracing YAI’s Mission

 

Old Navy embraces YAI’s mission of helping the people we support achieve the fullest life possible by creating new opportunities for living, loving, working, and learning.

 

Having spent a 13-year career at Sy Syms, the discount men’s clothing store in Manhattan which closed in 2011, Tanuja enjoys working in retail.

 

Searching for work can be difficult, Tanuja said. “My disability doesn’t stop me or define who I am.”