Childhood dreams becoming a reality: My journey with Qantas

I grew up in Poland and immigrated to Australia when I was 10, we flew with Qantas from Singapore to Perth on a Boeing 747. My parents and I didn’t speak any English at the time, so we had trouble filling out our immigration documents, but the Qantas crew found a Polish speaker who was so kind and translated everything for us. Afterwards the crew member took me to visit the flight deck and introduced me to the pilots - I thought they were very nice, but I clearly remember being completely in awe of the Cabin Crew lady. That day I told my parents I wanted to be just like her when I grew up. 

All through high school, my parents kept asking me what I wanted to do. I considered nursing at one point, but my heart was set on aviation. My brother and I were browsing in an op shop one day and I came across a Qantas plush toy and saw it as a sign. I applied, was accepted and have never looked back. Despite the fact that on my very first flight I told passengers over the PA that we were flying to Copenhagen when I meant Coffs Harbour. 

Now, 21 years later, I'm still here, filled with the same passion and love for my job as the day I started. And yes, I still have my cherished plush plane, a reminder of the incredible journey that brought me to where I am today.

- Monika, QantasLink Cabin Crew