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Meet Samira, a Client Advisor in Switzerland. After a life changing accident, she and her team had to redefine how they worked together – with honesty, trust, and new routines that made collaboration most efficient. Samira made a conscious choice: to talk openly about her disability. To welcome questions and share her experience so others could understand it rather than fear it. At �鶹��, inclusion means honoring personal choice: supporting colleagues who choose to share their disability, while fully respecting those who prefer to keep such information private. Samira’s openness built deeper understanding with colleagues and clients, giving back something far more meaningful: stronger connections and a renewed team spirit. Read on to discover her full story.

Samira, tell us a bit about yourself and how your career with �鶹�� began.

I grew up in St. Moritz, where I gained my first work experience at 16 through an apprenticeship with �鶹��. Working for a global organization felt like the perfect opportunity to grow. In 2016, three years into my journey, I paused to focus on my business administration studies. 2019 became a milestone year – I completed my bachelor’s degree and took a long-dreamed-of trip to the United States. When I returned to Switzerland, I immediately reached out to my former �鶹�� manager about potential work opportunities. The response was incredibly positive – it was so exciting to hear that �鶹�� truly wanted me back! I soon interviewed for a Client Manager position in Bad Ragaz, got the job, and this has been my professional home ever since.

In 2021 your life took a sudden turn. What came next?

In December 2021, I had a snowboard accident that broke my 5th cervical vertebra, resulting in tetraplegia and affecting all four limbs. After two operations to stabilize my cervical spine, I spent nine months in rehabilitation at the Swiss Paraplegic Centre in Nottwil. I was away from work for an entire year, learning how to live – and work – as a wheelchair user. Throughout it all, my managers and team supported me fully. There was never any doubt that I would return.

Returning must have required reasonable adjustments. How did you navigate that transition?

I had thousands of questions in my head: How would I get to the office? How would I handle documents? How would clients react? But the worry was unnecessary. Everyone – especially my team - was incredibly supportive. With help from HR, my leaders, and colleagues, I transitioned back gradually. I began with four hours per week to adapt to the physical demands, then slowly increased my workload. Today, I work at 40% capacity.

You helped drive several accessibility improvements in your office. Can you tell us more?

Our branch was already quite accessible, but transparency and open conversations helped us identify practical changes that removed barriers – not just for me, but for everyone.

�鶹�� coordinated with the local municipality to secure a dedicated parking space near the office. A heavy, key locked entrance door was replaced with a badge activated sliding door. Two separate employee and client toilets were combined into one spacious, accessible restroom.

All these changes and the way �鶹�� supported my needs allowed me to experience what real inclusion looks like: feeling safe and comfortable. For me personally, the key is I can focus on my work, being seen as a professional first and not defined by my disability.

How is your role today, and what helps you most with daily tasks?

On a typical day, I advise clients at the digital desk or in one-on-one meetings about digital banking, pensions, investments, and everyday financial needs. I also prepare documentation, handle administrative tasks, and call clients from the back office.

Adaptive tools – like an assistive mouse, a pen attachment, mobile scanning, virtual meetings, and speech to text – make my daily work much easier. But the most valuable support still comes from my team. I know I can rely on them, always.

Outside of work, what gives you energy and helps you recharge?

Being in nature is a huge source of strength for me, and I spend a lot of time outdoors – it gives me a real sense of freedom and connection. With my off‑road wheelchair, I explore the places I’ve always loved.

I also deeply value the time I spend with my boyfriend, friends and family – laughing together, creating new memories and enjoying the small everyday moments that make life meaningful.

A very special place for me is our holiday house near the Italian border. I’ve loved it since I was little, and it holds many beautiful memories. After my accident, my parents made thoughtful adjustments to this old house so I could continue spending time there, and I’m incredibly grateful for that. My life may look different today, but it’s still full of beautiful moments – and I’m grateful for each of them.

You often mention how openness strengthened you and your team. What does that look like in practice?

I believe that strong teams are built through what we give each other every day, especially in difficult moments. After my accident, we all had to learn new ways of working together. It took transparency, patience and honesty, but it made us closer. We give each other time, talk openly, and feel comfortable asking questions without fear of saying something wrong.

This transparency extends to clients, too. After coming back to work, at the start of each meeting, I briefly explained why I was away for a year. That openness puts people at ease. One client told me her father has been in a wheelchair her entire life – this openness sparked a beautiful, deeper conversation. By giving people the opportunity to ask questions and sharing my reality, I gained something I value most: trust.

Many people with disabilities are afraid of disclosing their disability at work. What advice would you give to them?

Remember that your skills, potential, and personality make you a strong candidate - not your disability. Your lived experience has real value. You deserve to grow, contribute and be recognized as the professional you are. If you need accommodations, say so - it enables you to perform at your best. Look for organizations that speak openly about inclusion and accessibility. Culture matters. In the right environment, your openness builds trust, not barriers.