A former Alaska Airlines flight attendant, Nelle Diala, has taken to GoFundMe for support after losing her job. The dismissal came following the posting of a TikTok video where she was seen twerking aboard an empty plane. Diala claims the airline accused her of violating its social media policy.
A Dream Job Turned Nightmare
“I never thought a single moment would cost me everything,” Diala wrote on her GoFundMe page. She described her job as her dream, emphasizing her love for meeting people, traveling the world, and ensuring passenger safety. However, the 27-second TikTok video brought unexpected scrutiny rather than the joy she had intended.
The video, in which Diala danced to the song Ghetto by E.K.E. featuring TruCarr, was recorded during a layover. Diala explained it was a celebratory moment after completing her probationary period with Alaska Airlines. In her updated TikTok caption, she defended her actions, stating, “Can’t even be yourself anymore, without the world being so sensitive.”
Employer’s Reaction and Public Response
According to Diala, her employer terminated her without warning, stating the video violated their social media guidelines. “I explained the video wasn’t intended to harm anyone or the company,” she said. “But they didn’t want to listen. No discussion, no chance to defend myself—and no chance for a thorough investigation.”
The airline’s Code of Conduct emphasizes respecting others, refraining from posting confidential information, and maintaining personal profiles distinct from the company. Despite not naming Alaska Airlines in her video, Diala faced termination.
As of Thursday, Diala’s fundraiser had raised $1,706, well short of her $12,000 goal. The funds aim to help her navigate this challenging period, which included recent personal losses.
Diala reflected, “Although it was a poor decision, I didn’t think it would cost me my dream job.” Whether her story will encourage a broader discussion on social media policies remains uncertain, but the support she has received highlights the public’s mixed views on her firing.