Hope Takes Flight at Cleveland Hopkins Airport: One Hire Opens a Thriving Employer Connection
Wael visits Victoria’s ABM Table at The Hope Center’s Job Fair
Sometimes opportunity begins not with a program, but with a person. For the partnership between The Hope Center and ABM Staffing, that person was Wael Meshal.
Wael came to Cleveland from Jordan in 2019 and spent three years working in food service. He also attended English classes at The Hope Center to build his language skills and adjust to life in the U.S. Though grateful for his job, he hoped for a new opportunity closer to the work he knew best. That’s when he connected with Jewel Yokie, Senior Career Development Manager at The Hope Center.
“When I asked Wael what kind of job he was looking for, he began sharing his experience in the airport industry. It was clear how much he loved airports," recalls Jewel. "You could see it in the way he spoke about the work, it wasn’t just a job to him—it was where he felt at home."
Wael Featured in a Royal Jordanian Promotion
Back in Jordan, Wael had spent over two decades working in the airport industry driving buses, handling cargo, and assisting passengers at Royal Jordanian Airlines. Seeing his passion for airport work, Jewel began exploring similar employment opportunities locally and eventually connected with ABM Staffing, a contractor at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
The company had openings for a Wheelchair Passenger Assistant. Wael applied and interviewed with HR Manager Victoria Svoboda, who was immediately impressed. Wael returned to Jewel with his W2 paperwork and a smile, eager to share his success.
“Victoria was very supportive and encouraging,” shares Wael. “I was happy to find a job where I can be social and practice speaking English with others.” Wael helps travelers with mobility needs navigate the airport safely and comfortably. For him, the role is a chance to offer hospitality.
Wael in His New Role at Cleveland Hopkins
He immediately thrived in the role, earning a reputation for his dedication, warmth, and exceptional customer service. Victoria was so impressed with Wael that she wanted to meet more candidates like him.
“Wael was eager to learn and work. He goes above and beyond for passengers—so compassionate, always willing to help,” Victoria says. “I knew right away that this could lead to more than just a one-time hire.”
A direct line of communication opened between ABM and The Hope Center. Instead of searching job boards, Victoria trusted Jewel to send referrals—and they were strong. Today, four Hope Center students are working with ABM, with more opportunities extending across Concourse B and C thanks to Victoria’s advocacy.
For Victoria, the partnership is more than filling roles. She deeply cares for her staff, recognizing that life outside of work shapes performance inside of it. During The Hope Center’s first job fair, Victoria was the last employer to leave, lingering to meet every possible candidate. “I wish more businesses would be open to hiring refugees and immigrants,” she says. “There are so many people who just need someone to grab their hand and give them a chance.”
For Wael, that chance has been transformative. "I’m very happy where I am," Wael says. "The work here is safer than it was in Jordan, and I take extra shifts when I can. ABM offers training for promotion and new opportunities, and they are understanding of employee needs.” He loves welcoming people to Cleveland, offering a sense of hospitality that travelers remember.
The Hope Center welcomes more employers like ABM to partner and build strong employment connections. If you’re looking to hire dedicated individuals like Wael, contact Jewel Yokie at jewel@buildinghopeinthecity.org.
