Since 2021, Disneyland Paris has taken part in DuoDay, an initiative led by the French Ministry for People with Disabilities to promote workplace inclusion. By discovering different roles alongside volunteer Cast Members, participants are able to refine their professional projects, broaden their networks, and play an active role in challenging workplace disability stereotypes.
It was through this program that Maxime —now a Cast Member creating magic in the food and beverage teams of Main Street, U.S.A.— first discovered what it was like to work at Disneyland Paris.
Maxime, could you introduce yourself and tell us about your journey?
My name is Maxime and I’m a food & beverage Cast Member in the teams of Victoria’s Home-Style Restaurant, Market House Deli, and Cable Car Bake Shop since June 2025. I’ve always been a huge Disney fan —I was even an annual passholder— and one day I thought: “What would it be like to work there?” I spoke with my ESAT – an employment support and training center – which suggested I take part in a DuoDay at Emporium. I loved the experience, and later I had the chance to do a second DuoDay, this time in the kitchen at Victoria’s Home-Style Restaurant, where I still work today. That second DuoDay experience had an impactful impact in my career because right after that, I completed two fixed-term contracts before being offered a permanent position. Through the process, the Mission Handicap team at Disneyland Paris was really supportive to ensure that my professional project was a success.
How did you feel when you learned you’d be taking part in DuoDay at Disneyland Paris?
I was torn between excitement and nerves. I woke up very early that day, eager to finally see what happens behind the scenes. I’d always wondered what was hidden behind the magic! At the same time, I was a little anxious, especially about getting lost in costuming, since I had no idea how it all worked! In the end, the day went really well. I was pleasantly surprised by the warm welcome we received. It was an incredible experience.
What does your job involve today?
I mainly work in the kitchens of Victoria’s Home-Style Restaurant and Market House Deli. I handle food preparation as well as setting up the displays. I love interacting with guests! Even though I’m in the kitchen, I often get the chance to chat with guests. Some even ask me questions about the attractions, and I like to tell them everything runs thanks to Tinker Bell’s pixie dust!
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I really like discovering new products before they’re released. For example, during Disney’s Enchanted Christmas, we got to see the new items a few days ahead of time. I couldn’t wait to see the guests’ reactions and it was worth it, they loved them! And of course, from here I can hear the parade pass by every day on Main Street, U.S.A. That is pure magic!
For DuoDay 2025, you’ll be mentoring a participant with a disability. What does that mean to you?
When I was asked to take on this role, I said yes immediately. Moving from trainee to mentor is a big step. I’m very proud of this journey and I’m excited to pass along what I learnt. My advice to anyone with a disability is: don’t be afraid (not even of costuming!). The teams are there to support you, and there are so many opportunities waiting.
The 2025 edition of DuoDay, held during the European Week for the Employment of People with Disabilities, gave more than thirty participants the chance to discover Disneyland Paris and explore its 500 different roles. For the Lens city ESAT, initiatives like DuoDay “offer a real-life work experience,” complementing the training provided in their centers, “both in terms of professional skills and interpersonal skills, under the guidance of specialized educators and workshop supervisors.”
Learn more about accessibility at Disneyland Paris by visiting our webpage.