Feels like a dream: Cleaner in UAE awarded Dh100,000, has no plans to quit job

Pameela’s journey from uncertainty to being celebrated as a symbol of excellence in Abu Dhabi has prompted her to reflect on the twists and turns that led her to this remarkable moment

Still in shock, Pameela Krishnan, winner of the top spot in the inaugural Emirates Labour Market Award’s Distinguished Workforce – Other Professional Levels category, wonders if she is still dreaming about it all.

“Standing in front of so many distinguished guests and government officials when I went to receive my trophy, I was in a state of shock, but I also felt happy. I feel I am still dreaming,” Pameela said, beaming joyfully.

“When Pameela went to collect her award, we were worried that she might be scared, but she was so confident and didn’t show any nervousness,” said her colleague Sreeja. “For us, that moment was as if she was winning an Oscar award.”

When asked why the company nominated Pameela for the award, Sreeja responded without hesitation, “It is because of her dedication and hard work. She has been at this brunch (of CMC) in Delma Street for 13 years. I have worked with her for five years and can see her effort. Under any circumstances, you will find her smiling and giving her 100%.”

Mohammed Salman Faris, who has been Pameela’s colleague for seven years and serves as the supervisor of the cleaning facility, humorously remarked, “After receiving the award, we inquired if she intended to resign from her job and return to India. Her response was a resounding no.”

Pameela chimes in, “I will only leave my job at CMC when the arbab (boss) instructs me to do so; otherwise, I am committed to working for as long as I am able.”

When media suggested that her recent windfall could significantly boost her financial situation and possibly render her free from the need to work, Pameela responded, “I have lots of responsibilities.”

Translating Pameela’s response, Mohammed Salman conveyed, “She incurred a substantial loan for constructing her house. Additionally, she borrowed money for her son and daughter’s weddings, and took a loan to purchase gold jewellery for Gayatri. The Dh100,000 will be immensely helpful in alleviating her financial burden and settling these loans.”

When the money is transferred to her account, Pameela intends to set aside Dh20,000. Expressing a sense of relief, she remarked, “I will use the funds to pay off my loan, and begin saving from my salary from now on.”

In addition to the Dh100,000 reward, Pameela was given a life insurance policy, a shopping card, a Fazaa card (discount card), a Dh5 gold coin, and a two-night stay at a five-star hotel as part of the recognition.

“I am eternally thankful to my boss, Mubarak Bin Falah, CEO of Canadian Medical Centre (CMC) Group, for providing me with this opportunity to serve, and to the management for nominating me. I am also grateful to the UAE for the life it has given me, allowing me to work here and consider this country my second home. I am committed to continuing my work for as long as I am permitted. I have no intentions of quitting my job,” Pameela expressed with gratitude.