Portraits from ATU

Ankara

Taha Zor

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Taha Zor

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I am a Deputy Team Leader. I am responsible for managing the team and operational processes.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would live in Iceland. Because it offers a peaceful and safe life surrounded by nature; the crime rate is very low, people are respectful, and there is a high level of social harmony. I also find it very appealing to be able to see natural wonders such as the northern lights in every season, to live a modern but simple life, and to be in a clean environment.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

One trait I would like to change about myself is that I am very fussy; thinking about everything in too much detail sometimes tires me out. Thinking about everything down to the smallest detail sometimes complicates things, and I would very much like to change this fussy side of me.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

The trait I am most proud of is that I never let anyone take advantage of me under any circumstances or in any environment; I always stand tall and defend my rights.

What is your greatest fear in life?

Losing my loved ones.

Is there a talent you wish you had? 

I would really love to be able to play any instrument well; connecting with music in this way would give me great pleasure.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

Mustafa Kemal ATATÜRK

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

It's enough for me to be honest.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

If I had the chance to change something about myself, I would want to be braver in pursuing my dreams. My mind always chose the logical option, calculated the risks, considered the possibilities. 

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

Playing games on the computer.

What is your biggest regret in life?

Not implementing the plans I set out to achieve.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest? 

The moment I felt happiest in my life was 15 days ago, when my child was born. In that moment, time seemed to stand still... There was an indescribable love in my heart and hope in my eyes. It was right there, in that moment, that I understood what happiness truly means.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life? 

The more you say no, the more time you make for yourself, and the happier you become.

Antalya

Rahmi Erşahin

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

I am Rahmi Erşahin, and I have been working in the Antalya operations of the ATU Duty Free family for 8 months. I consider myself to be disciplined, open to learning, and someone who values team spirit.

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I serve as the Deputy Team Leader. My primary responsibilities include providing the best possible service to our customers in our store and supporting my colleagues who manage the sales processes. I am responsible for ensuring coordination between operational support units and field sales teams, providing feedback to ensure the smoothest possible operational flow. I also contribute to initiatives aimed at enhancing customer satisfaction.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

Definitely Norway. It has incredible natural beauty; mountains, forests, clean lakes, and of course the northern lights... It is one of the world's model countries with its environmentally friendly policies. It is a community with a culture that supports social success rather than individual success. Also, the mythological heroes of Scandinavian history have always fascinated me since childhood. Thor, Odin, and others...

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

There is one aspect of myself that I don't want to change, but rather improve. I can be overly detail-oriented at times. I would like to balance this trait a little because I think it would make my job easier when I need to make quick decisions.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

I am pleased with my high sense of responsibility and developed empathy.  I observe that being an empathetic person supports me in communication and relationships, both in my professional and personal life. Because understanding people is very important to me. 

What is your greatest fear in life?

Harm coming to my loved ones. Because family and friendship are very precious to me. I always feel the support of my friends and family. Even the thought of harm coming to them bothers me.

Is there a talent you wish you had? 

I wish I had the ability to understand people's emotions and instantly sense what they truly need. Because sometimes people can't find the right words or feel constrained when expressing the emotions they need.  If I had such an ability, I could both understand what they need and defend them when they are misunderstood. Indeed, this would turn my empathy into a superpower. I'd like to explain why I wish I had such a talent with just one phrase; 

Sylviane Herpin said;

there are differences  between what you think,

What you want to say,

What you think you said, 

What you said. 

and what the other person wants to hear, 

What they heard, 

What they want to understand, 

What they think they understood, 

And what they understood.

Therefore, there are at least 9 possibilities for people to misunderstand each other.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk is definitely at the top of the list. His leadership philosophy and innovative vision are a huge source of inspiration for me. My gratitude is boundless. Attila and Mahatma Gandhi are also leaders I admire.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Being absolutely reliable and not just a fair-weather friend, but someone who can provide support in difficult times as well. 

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I want to change my impatience and become a more patient person. Because sometimes I can be hasty, and this can cause me to miss the truth.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

Since my childhood, my favorite activity has always been playing sports. It still is. In addition, socializing with my friends and visiting ancient historical cities are also among my favorite activities.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I have previously postponed some opportunities that will not come again. However, I saw this as an experience and learned some lessons for myself. 

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest? 

Times when I am with my family and enjoy a pleasant dinner. Although it may seem a bit contradictory, I also greatly enjoy watching Fenerbahçe matches at the Fenerbahçe stadium. I love the magic of the moment, regardless of the outcome.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life? 

My father instilled a motto in me. Since I was little, he would say, “Either do what you love, or love what you do.” Thanks to this motto, whatever job I do, I do it with love and interest. When this love and sense of belonging are combined with dedication, success is inevitable. 

Bodrum

Yaren Topal

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Yaren Topal

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I work as a Personnel Affairs Team Member. As a personnel team member, I work in the company's human resources and culture department and handle employee personnel files and records.  I ensure that all processes from employee onboarding to offboarding are carried out.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would like to live in Naples, Italy. Because peaceful and quiet places have always relaxed me. Also, since I really love living by the sea, I would choose this place.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

I would like to change my tendency to be overly perfectionistic; getting caught up in unnecessary details can sometimes be exhausting.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

I love being competitive.

What is your greatest fear in life?

The thing that scares me in life is ‘failure’. When I can't reach my full potential in my work, the feeling of inadequacy can scare me.

Is there a talent you wish you had? 

I would like to have a super memory. I would like to remember everything and store unlimited information in my memory. 

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

We are definitely infinitely grateful to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk for making Türkiye such a modern state.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Empathy, honesty, energy, good communication.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I have too many indecisive tendencies. I would like to smooth these out. Being stuck in the middle when it comes to making decisions can sometimes affect my perspective on things.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

Meeting up with my friends and spending time together has always been good for me. Other than that, walks I take on my own are among the things I enjoy.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I wouldn't call it my biggest regret, but in some situations, I can feel regretful when I waste time and don't use it more productively.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest? 

I felt very excited and happy during my trip to Egypt, my first experience abroad. Traveling to different places was good for me.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life? 

“Rise and Shine” has been a slogan that makes me feel good about myself.

Gazipaşa

Ateş Cem Öncel

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Ateş Cem Öncel

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I work as a Sales Specialist at ATU Duty Free Gazipaşa Operation. I help our guests leave our store satisfied by guiding them through the ATU Style Customer Experience, ensuring they enjoy a unique ATU experience.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would like to live in the UK. As someone who loves soccer, it would be great to live in the “cradle of football”.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

Rather than changing something, I would like to develop more self-confidence. Because then I would have the chance to show the other side more clearly what I can do.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

Being able to empathize.

What is your greatest fear in life?

Losing people that I have.

Is there a talent you wish you had? 

I would like to be able to read the minds of those in front of me, to be able to read their thoughts.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

Mustafa Kemal ATATÜRK

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Respect.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I wish I could take more risks. Because I don't think I can grow without taking risks. 

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

I enjoy spending time on the game console whenever I get the chance. 

What is your biggest regret in life?

I have absolutely no regrets. Because I believe that if something happened or didn't happen, there was a reason for it. 

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest? 

Without a doubt, the time I spend at home with my son is the happiest time and place in my life.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life? 

“The greatest victory in life is not never falling, but getting back up every time you fall.”

Georgia

Nika Gedevanishvili

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?
Hi, my name is Nika Gedevanishvili and I’m working for ATU Duty Free for year and a half.
What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?
I've been working as a Merchandising Assistant Specialist. I work as both a merchandiser and a trainer for ATU Style and LTC categories. In my merchandiser role, I make sure products are well-displayed, in stock, and aligned with brands standarts. As a trainer, I deliver sessions to help teams improve sales, product knowledge, and customer service.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Due to my attraction for traveling, the list of the ‘’City I would like to live’’ changes monthly. At this moment Lugano. It offers a high quality of life. It’s a beautiful city on Lake Lugano, surrounded by nature, clean streets and a relaxed atmosphere. I love that it combines city life with easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and sailing.
Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?
I tend to be a perfectionist, and I’m working on balancing high standarts with efficiency and flexibility. I’m trying to not stress over making everything perfect. In my thoughts, being a perfectionist sometimes slows you down and also afflects on relationships. You might spend too much time perfecting something that’s good enough. For the relationships, I would like to say, that it makes you the critical one for yourself, or for others.
What is your favourite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?
I would like to prefer for inner features and I would say my balance. It allows me handle challenges effictively, prioritize tasks, and support my private-working life on a high level. Because of that feature most of the times I stay calm and make better choices.
For the visual feature I would say hands. Even in the childhood when I used to paint, I was always drawing hands, cause for me they are like poetry in motion from creating something to touching someone.
What is your greatest fear in life?
I’ve realized that one of the fears I sometimes experience is the fear of missing opportunities. It’s that feeling when I wonder if I’m making the most of my time, or if there’s chance I didn’t take that could have led growth, learning or meaningful experiences. I’ve learned to channel it in positive way.
Is there a talent you wish you had?
I have always felt a quiet fascination with painting, even if it has been dormant for many years. As a child, I used to pick up brushes and enjoyed letting my imagination show through colors. But as I grew up, I stopped painting and slowly forgot how much I loved it. I want to bring that part of me back, to create and express myself again through art. It’s not just about skill or talent, it’s about enjoying painting and reconnecting with something I’ve always loved.
Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?
My historical hero from the past is Ludwig van Beethoven. I admire him because he was an amazing composer who created music that still touches people today, even hundreds of years later. What inspires me most about Beethoven is that he did not give up, even when life was very hard. He started to lose his hearing when he was young, and later he became almost completely deaf. For many people, losing their hearing would make it impossible to make music, but Beethoven kept composing and creating beautiful pieces.
What qualities do you most value in a friend?
In my friends, the quality I value most is being a good listener. I like friends who really listen to me when I talk, who pay attention and try to understand what I feel or think. A good listener does not just hear words – they notice emotions, they show care, and they make me feel understood and important. It really builds trust and makes friendship stronger. For me, a friend who is a good listener is more than just a companion – they are someone who truly connects with me and makes me feel supported. That is why I value this quality above many others in friendship.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?
I don’t thing I would change anything about myself because I believe that every person is unique. Everyone has their own strengths, weaknesses, and special qualities that make them different from others. I feel that the things I like about myself, the things I have learned, and even the mistakes I have made, all form the person I am today. Changing myself just to fit someone else’s idea of ‘’perfect’’ would not feel right to me. Of course, it is good to learn and grow, but that is different from trying to change a thing. I respect and admire other people’s differences, and I thing everyone should celebrate their own. That is why I would not want to change anything about myself – I want to stay true to who I am.
What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

My favourite activity in my free time is playing tennis. I enjoy it because it is both fun and healthy. When I play tennis, I can move my body, run and exercise, which makes me feel strong and full of energy. I also like that it is a game that challenges me to focus and thing quickly, because I have to plan my moves and react to my opponent. For me, tennis is the perfect way to spend free time because it combines exercise, concentration and enjoyments. It helps me stau healthy, improve myself and feel happy at the same time.
What is your biggest regret in life?

My biggest regret in life is that I don’t spend enough ttime with my loved ones. Sometimes I’m too busy with work, studying or other activities, and I don’t realize how important those moments are. Looking back, I wish I had spent more time with my family, friends, and people I care about. I think those moments are very special because we cannot get them back. Being with loved ones is not just about talking or doing activities – it’s about creating memories, sharing happiness, and supporting each other. This regret has taught me an important lesson. I try to spend more time with the people I care about now and appreciate every moment I have with them.
Can you share with us the place and time where you felt happiest?

Last moment I remember was couple of months ago on my birthday. I spent it in Geneva with my friends. That day was very special to me because I was surrounded by people I care about and who care about me. We explored the city, enjoyed the beautiful views, and shared many laughs together. Switzerland is always special place to go for me – plus with friends? And plus on my birthday? Combination of a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and personal significance.
Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life?

In one of my favourite movie ‘’English Patient’’ Caravaggio says ‘’You have to protect yourself from sadness. Sadness is very close to hate.’’ It reminds me to take care of my emotions. Sadness is natural feeling, and everyone feels sad sometimes. But if sadness stays for a long time and grows, it can turn into anger or even hate. This quote also teaches me to be careful about what I think and feel. Protecting myself from sadness does not mean ignoring it – it means being aware of it and making sure it does not control me.

İstanbul

Tuna Sağır

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Hello, my name is Tuna Sağır. I can summarize myself as a very active, energetic, talkative, extremely disciplined person who never gives up until the end, makes his presence felt, is very loyal to his loved ones, and is very devoted.

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I have been working at ATU for almost 21 years and currently serve as Customer Relations Manager. I manage all post-sales processes for the company's domestic and international operations in accordance with relevant laws, regulations, and company procedures.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would love to live in Singapore because of its high standard of living. In my opinion, it is the safest, most developed, and most modern country in the world. It offers high income, low taxes, an exceptional education and healthcare system, pristine and lush nature, punctual and convenient transportation, four seasons of summer, and a minimal crime rate.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

I am a very control-oriented person.  I would love to be able to let go of my need to control everyone, everything, and every situation. Because this trait causes me to be very hard on myself.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

I am a person who believes in myself very much. I have overcome many challenges on my own. 

What is your greatest fear in life?

A long period of uncertainty and the disappointment I might experience in the end.

Is there a talent you wish you had? 

I would love to be able to play any musical instrument. Unfortunately, I have no talent in this area.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

Mehmet the Conqueror. Both a great military leader and a forward-thinking statesman. A ruler who spoke seven languages. A multi-faceted genius who, in addition to his passion for science and art, turned Istanbul into a multicultural center with his vision and, most importantly, conquered the imperial capital at the age of 21.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Being compassionate, reliable, and determined are the three most important qualities for me in any situation.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I am a person who gets bored easily and is very impatient. Therefore, I live with the idea that everything must be under my control and happen quickly. This actually tires me out a lot.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

As someone who manages to be happy on their own and really enjoys this state, I always take long walks by myself in my free time.

What is your biggest regret in life?

My biggest regret is putting off some things I wanted to achieve, thinking, “I'll do it sometime.”

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest? 

As a specific moment, one of the happiest moments of my life was when I came in first and received an award at the Fiat Siena Cup rally race I participated in in Bornova, Izmir, in 2001, when I was just in my early twenties. In general, New Year's Eve and holidays during my childhood were the happiest times for me.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life? 

Albert Camus has a quote that I love: “In the middle of winter, I found an invincible summer inside me.” That's exactly the kind of person I am; I always have endless hope inside me, and the lower I fall, the louder that hope becomes.

İzmir

Erhan Özakay

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

My name is Erhan Özakay, and I have been working as a Sales Specialist at ATU Duty Free for about 7 years. 

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I am the JTI company representative in the LTC department.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would prefer places with a tropical climate that are warm all year round. For example, Costa Rica would be a great option.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

When making decisions, I prefer to act based on logic rather than my inner voice and intuition. Sometimes, intense emotions can lead me astray.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

Probably my patience. I can show the same care every time without getting tired or bored.

What is your greatest fear in life?

I'm very afraid of dogs that bark and chase me.

Is there a talent you wish you had? 

I would love to be able to read minds, to sense what the person in front of me is thinking. 

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

My historical heroes are my mom and dad.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Just show up on time for our meeting and don't keep me waiting...

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

Sometimes I act hastily, make rash decisions, and make the wrong choices. I would prefer to think more calmly before acting.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

Going out on a boat with my friends to fish is an activity I really enjoy.

What is your biggest regret in life?

Starting my working life at ATU at such a late age is my biggest regret.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest? 

The moment my spouse answered “YES!” to the question asked by the marriage registrar. .

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life? 

If you're going to do something, either be the best at it or don't do it at all.

Kazakhstan

Aina Karashasheva

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Hello dear colleagues, my name is Aina Karashasheva. I’m glad to greet you all and be part of the ATU Duty Free team. 

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I’m a Sales and Payment Consultant at ATU Duty Free and also proud to be a Chanel Brand Ambassador. I help customers enjoy the best shopping experience, share product knowledge, and guide them to discover the spirit and timeless values of Chanel . Recently, I was selected for the ATU Style Sales Trainer role, and I’m really excited to begin my training and develop my skills further. 

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I love my home, Kazakhstan, and enjoy living in Almaty —it’s such an active and vibrant city. But recently I had a business trip to Paris, and it inspired me a lot. For the sake of growth, new opportunities, and career development, I would love to experience living in other European countries —and even beyond.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

Since joining this company, I feel that I have been evolving and changing a lot. I wouldn’t want to change any specific characteristics , but I would like to continue developing them and add new ones. I would like to become a strong leader, more confident, self-aware, and mature in my decisions, embracing every opportunity to learn and grow. 

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

I’m most proud of being ambitious, positive and always eager to develop and improve. I love that I’m constantly exploring new opportunities, especially in my career, and that I never stay in one place but keep moving forward.

What is your greatest fear in life?

Sometimes I fear that I wake up one day and realize that I have missed out on  close people and let opportunities pass by because of fear or other mistakes. That’s why I always try to step out of my comfort zone, embrace new experiences, and learn from everything I do.

Is there a talent you wish you had?

I wish I had a phenomenal memory — like a superpower. It would not only help me in my career, but also let me learn more about the world, broaden my horizons, learning languages and build deeper connections with people. Being able to remember and recall things easily would make every experience more meaningful, enjoyable and useful in everyday life. 

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

My favorite historical hero is Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. She created such a legendary brand that remains iconic and loved around the world to this day. I admire her for transforming fashion, breaking norms, and fearlessly following her vision. She inspires me to believe in myself, express who I am, and be bold and confident in pursuing my goals.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

I really appreciate friends who are supportive, kind, honest and energizing to be around. I value those who encourage me to grow, share laughter in everyday moments, and stand by me through challenges. Having friends like this makes life brighter, more meaningful, and inspires me to be a better person.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I would like to never be afraid, to believe in myself more, speak with confidence, be wiser in my decisions. I think, it is not something you need to change, it will come naturally with experience 

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

I love dancing because it keeps me energized, lets me express myself creatively, boosts my confidence, and helps me stay fit and healthy. Also I enjoy singing, it allows me to relax and recharge, enjoy the moment, and connect with my own energy and emotions.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I try not to dwell on regrets. I believe that everything, whether good or bad, happens for a reason and brings valuable lessons. Even challenging or difficult experiences teach me something important. Every experience helps me grow and shapes who I am today.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest?

I feel happiest when I’m with my family and friends. Just being together, sharing moments, laughing, or simply enjoying each other’s company fills me with joy and makes me appreciate life even more. Those moments remind me what truly matters.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life?

I don’t have a specific slogan that motivates me, but what inspires me most is recognizing the progress I’ve made so far. Seeing what I’ve achieved gives me confidence that I can accomplish even more, and motivates me to keep pushing forward and growing both personally and professionally.

North Macedonia

Derya Imer

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Hello, my name is Derya Imer.

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I work as a Sales and Payment Consultant at ATU Duty Free. My responsibilities include providing customer service, offering product recommendations, and ensuring a smooth shopping experience for travelers. I am glad to introduce myself and I look forward to working with you.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

If I could live anywhere in the world, I would choose a city by the sea, maybe Barcelona. I enjoy places that combine culture, good weather, and a relaxed lifestyle, and also somewhere that combines career opportunities with a good quality of life, for example a European capital city.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

A characteristic I would like to change is that I can be a bit perfectionist at times. I would like to improve my time management skills. I sometimes spend too much time on small details.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

My favorite feature is my reliability colleagues and customers know they can count on me, and also i think that i have communication skills and empathy which leads to better sales and recommendations.

What is your greatest fear in life?

My biggest fear in life is losing my loved ones. That’s my biggest fear but if we talk about generally not growing personally or professionally. That’s why I continuously seek feedback and learning opportunities.

Is there a talent you wish you had?

A talent I wish I had is public speaking. Being more confident in front of larger groups would help me in presentations and team meetings.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

My historical hero is the great leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk because of his leadership, vision, and dedication to his country. 

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

I most value reliability and empathy in a friend, someone who listens, supports, and can be trusted.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I would like to improve is my time management. I’m working on prioritizing tasks more efficiently and also to be more patient in a stressful situations.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

I enjoy spending time with my fiancé friends and family.

What is your biggest regret in life?

My biggest regret is hesitating to take on challenging tasks in the past, but I’ve learned to be more confident in seizing opportunities.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest?

It is not just this one but if i would choose one it will be my proposal day it was in a Greek island on 07.07.2025. 

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life?

My motto is always strive to do your best and I’m motivated by seeing learn from every experience it encourages me to grow and improve continuously.

Latvia

Linda Audze

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname? 

My name is Linda Audze. My professional background is accounting and tax, but what truly defines me is my dedication to my work and the people around me. I believe in building strong relationships based on trust and respect, just as I do in my family life.

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I've been working as a Tax and Accounting Supervisor at ATU Duty Free. In this role, I am responsible for overseeing the company's full accounting cycle. A key part of my role is also to ensure compliance with all tax regulations. Essentially, I ensure that all financial processes are accurate, efficient, and fully compliant with both company policy and legal requirements.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

My ideal place to live is right here in Latvia. I love the balance it provides - the distinct four seasons and the constant opportunities for a dynamic, active lifestyle. While I might wish for a bit more sunshine sometimes, the variety keeps things interesting. Ultimately, though, the most important factor for me is not a particular climate or location. It is about being with my family. My greatest sense of belonging and comfort comes from being near the people I care about most. That is a feeling that no other place in the world can replicate.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

I am always looking for ways to become a more effective or to be more efficient with my time. It is not about changing who I am, but about continually becoming the best version of myself.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

I would say the feature I am most proud of is my reliability. I have always valued being someone that people can count on. It is a quality that I find others often appreciate in me. For me, it is not just about doing what is expected, it is about doing the right thing, even when it is difficult, and being a person of my word. This has allowed me to build strong, trusting relationships throughout my career, and I believe that is one of my greatest strengths.

What is your greatest fear in life?

My greatest fear is not of failure itself, but of inaction. Even though thoughts about failure also brings fear. I am most afraid of looking back and realizing I missed a significant opportunity, whether it is professional or personal, simply because I was too afraid to take a risk. I believe growth happens when I step outside my comfort zone and take on new challenges, even when the outcome is not guaranteed. 

Is there a talent you wish you had?

I do not have one specific talent that I wish I had, like being a great singer or maybe architect. Instead, I have always wished I had the ability to learn new things quickly and to a high level of proficiency. I am talking about the kind of skills you often see people master from a young age—whether it is learning a new language, picking up a musical instrument, or even becoming a skilled public speaker. I find that this talent would open up so many doors, both personally and professionally.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

I've never had a specific historical hero. I have always felt that many of the personalities we elevate had their own complexities. To me a hero is someone who uses their time and energy to build up a better world for others. It is the spirit of generosity and the willingness to help others that I find most heroic.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

I believe the qualities that make a great friend are the same ones that make any relationship successful. For me that starts with respect and honesty. I also deeply value fairness and a sense of care for one another. The word “friend” is very significant to me, and the few people I consider friends are people I have a deep and lasting bond with. My friendships are a lot like family relationships—they are built on a foundation of trust and a willingness to be there for each other, no matter what.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

That is a thoughtful question. I honestly feel very content with who I am, and I wouldn't want to change anything about myself. Every experience, good or bad, has shaped me into the person I am today.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

My favorite free time activity is simply spending time with my two fantastic children. I truly enjoy our conversations, learning about their unique perspectives on life, listening to their thoughts, and just connecting with them. We love to be active together, whether it is riding our bikes, taking walks by the sea, or simply talking. The moments of laughter, smiles, and hugs are the most rewarding part of my day. It is my way of recharging and gaining perspective.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I have had my share of failures and moments that were difficult, but I view them as essential parts of my journey. I see these challenges not as something to regret, but as opportunities for learning. They have taught me valuable lessons about what is important and have shaped me into a more adaptable person. I prefer to use past experiences as a foundation for future success.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest?

That is a question I can answer with one word “home”. This is where I feel completely at peace and to spend daily time with my family.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life?

My personal motto is “Always say yes”! I have found that every “yes” I have said to a new opportunity whether it's a project at work, a new skill to learn, or a personal challenge, it has led to a richer and more colorful life.

Tunisia

Nermine Boumiza

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

My name is Nermine Boumiza. 

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I work as a Sales and Payment Consultant, responsible for assisting customers, maintaining high service standards and ensuring smooth daily operations.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would choose Spain for its culture, beautiful landscapes and dynamic lifestyle.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

I’d like to reduce overthinking to improve decision making under pressure.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

I’d say my adaptability, the way I handle changes and challenges.

What is your greatest fear in life?

Losing someone close to me.

Is there a talent you wish you had?

I wish I was good at equitation I admire the skill, control and connection with the horse.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

Malala yousafzai, for her courage, dedication for justice and human rights.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Loyalty, honesty and support.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

Being open to the idea of taking more risks.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

I enjoy reading and learning facts about different topics.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I actually don’t have any regrets because I believe every experience whether is positive or challenging has helped me grow.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest?

It was a trip by the sea with my family it reminds me of it, of the warmth and simplicity of childhood.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life?

Carpe momentum which refers to focusing on acting decisively when the right time arises.

Oman

Anjanette Gorgoya

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Hi, I am Anjanette Gorgoya.

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I am a Sales and Payment Consultant in ATU Duty Free Salalah operation, providing the customers with the excellent service, assisting with their inquiries and needs.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would still prefer to live in my own country, which is Philippines, even though the life there was not that easy, but for me there is no place like home.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

It is being a softhearted person even though it is considered a positive characteristic, because sometimes I am making my decision based on my emotion that will lead me regretting in the end.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

Being a true Christian because it taught me to become humble, patience and selfless person.

What is your greatest fear in life?

My greatest fear is leaving my kids behind in this world when they are still young because I know that nothing can compare for the love of a mother towards their children.

Is there a talent you wish you had?

I am wishing to have a great talent on singing because I am a music lover person.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

My favorite historical hero is our country’s national hero, Jose Rizal, because he sacrificed his own life for us Filipinos.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Honest and trustworthy.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

Making decisions based on my emotion because it can lead me to a wrong decision.

What is your biggest regret in life?

It was being pregnant at an early age without thinking about my future and career. 

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

I love to travel and watch the beautiful nature.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest?

It is in my hometown in the Philippines every Christmas and New Year.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life?

Be stronger than your excuses.