We Are Heartists®
Learn about the shared passion for hospitality that unites our global community of team members.
People
Heartists®, Elevated: Where Passionate Hospitality Careers Thrive at Accor
Discover eight inspiring journeys of our Heartists® shaped by heart, growth, and human connection.
February 16, 2026
Everything begins with our people — their drive, their individuality, and the care they pour into every moment. Across 110 countries, more than 360,000 Heartists® shape hospitality in their own way. Here are just a few of the stories that inspire us.
Starting Over: Elvis’ Second Act
“Knowing that the way I welcome people truly matters ౼ that’s what makes me happy. That’s what makes me a Heartist®.”
Elverte “Elvis” Lima Vieira is a Receptionist at ibis Posto 5 Copacabana, Brazil ౼ discover how a new professional chapter gave him fresh energy and purpose.
A Sofitel Story, Told from the Heart
“Throughout my career, many people took the time to support me — that’s the true spirit of being a Heartist®: acting with kindness, fairness, and strength.”
Félicité Danis is Deputy General Manager at Sofitel Paris Arc de Triomphe, France ౼ read about how she champions collective excellence.
Setting the Scene for Every Moment
“Being a Heartist® means showing up with honesty and warmth. It’s about building real connections that can brighten someone’s day.”
Alexis Manuel Tilit is a Banquet Attendee at Grand Plaza Mövenpick Media City, UAE ౼ explore how he turns everyday moments into lasting memories.
Rooted in Legacy, Growing Together
“Before you become a leader, you need to learn to empower yourself. After you become a leader, you need to learn to empower others. When challenges come, we rise to them together.”
Duke Chen is Deputy General Manager at Fairmont Peace Shanghai, China ౼ learn how he guides his “big family” through continuity and growth.
Strictly Numbers, with a Flair for Flavor
“For me, to be a Heartist® is to be the heart of the hotel’s life and the hotel’s culture.”
Lin Chenqiuwen is Financial Controller at Pullman Paris Eiffel Tower, Paris – discover how she combined a love of numbers with a passion for gastronomy.
Front Desk Focus, with a Heart for People
“I can learn a different culture, welcome people from everywhere in the world, and learn new things every day. That’s what makes my heart beat so fast.”
Giselle Azenha is Reception Coordinator at Novotel Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – read about how she keeps her team happy and motivated.
A Quiet Craft, with Lasting Impact
“Through my work, I have realized that I can bring joy to others, and offer warm-hearted gestures to people.”
Xu Jiyao is Kitchen Chef at Grand Mercure Shanghai Hongqiao, in China – discover how he creates a sense of community through food.
Big Energy, Bigger Heart
“For me, the team is everything. I’m only one person. If they wouldn’t be there, I wouldn’t be here.”
Monica Metzger is General Manager at Mama Shelter Dubai, UAE – learn how mentoring had a vital impact on her career.
Explore Further
OUR HEARTIST® ETHOS
Connecting Cultures
Maria and Yasmin share insights about their culture and local neighborhood at Mercure Porto Centro Aliados.
Growing Confidence
Stella has gone from room attendant to supervisor at ibis Styles Accra Airport City, helped along by our talent programs.
