Who is Yusuf Ateye
Can you tell me about your background. (Name, Age, Where you are from).
So my Name is Yusuf Ateye, born and raised in East London from two beautiful Somali parents.
What are your own key values and beliefs?
This one is deep. I'd say my main key values are, Integrity, Peace, compassion and respect. I believe everyone should show respect to those around them, no matter who they/ what the do/ where they're from and be kind and loving. In terms of beliefs, I'd like to say I'm more or less a very relaxed person and I go by a saying which my mother said to me when I was younger - "Whatever's meant for you, will never miss you even if its between two mountains and whatever's not meant for you, will miss you even if its between your two lips"
Can you describe your professional journey so far?
So I started off as a juicer in Berkeley street back in 2019, I then rose through the Moneyball up to a Bar manager and was that for just a little under a year. After being a BM I took interest in the training side of things more than the managing side so I applied to join the training department and was fortunate to join the team. Mid 2022 I saw an ad to join the franchise team so I decided to apply and again found my fortunate to be involved in the start ups for both Saudi Arabia and Kuwait- I was in both countries for 6 months each, starting as an International Juicer in Saudi and an International Swat in Kuwait.
What motivated you to go Travel With Joe?
Curiosity and experience. I'm very curious about other cultures/countries and also wanted to experience and test myself outside of my comfort zone.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
I'm really into sports, especially football! I'm a big football fan have been watching/playing it since I can remember. I've played up to Semi professional level but it has actually been many years since I put on my boots but maybe one day I'll get back to playing it ha-ha.
Can you share a challenging experience or situation you had when you where out traveling?
Haha, Where can I start?? honestly, I would say the first few months in Saudi was extremely tough. Saudi Arabia is an up and coming country and it was difficult trying to find a way to merge the two cultures( JOE culture) at the beginning but we did it eventually, also starting up a new market from literally nothing was probably the toughest challenge I found myself in. All in all, those first few months taught me so much about myself, I found myself in situations I never expected, which forced me to learn how to react and take action in those circumstances.
What is your best travel memory?
The friendships I built. I worked with juicers from all around the world. From South Korea to Iceland, France, Belgium, Denmark and the Netherlands and also connected with juicers and management in local markets across different countries. It was a blessing to meet such people.
What is your best advice to an upcoming Travel Juicer?
Embrace it and be open. Yes, you will be outside of your comfort zone but this is where you'll grow the most! You'll get the chance to hone your skills and learn more about JOE whilst exploring a new country/culture.