Company bosses are being urged to snap up bright and ambitious candidates by looking beyond any of their physical challenges.
The rewards would be an enhanced workplace with loyal and determined employees that a disability rights leader believes the private sector may be currently missing out on.
“More effort is needed on an individual level to educate people about people with disabilities to give them a genuine opportunity to build a bright future,” said Bahrain Mobility International Centre board chairman Adel Sultan.
“Some candidates may need support such as wheelchair space, or adapted cars, which can make employers hesitant.
“That is why greater awareness in the private sector is so important, to show employers that people with disabilities can have tremendous potential and be just as efficient as an abled-bodied colleague, if not more so, and to give them a fair chance.”
He praised the government’s efforts in supporting the centre and employing people with disabilities across ministries, but stressed that real progress requires wider involvement, especially from the private sector.
“More effort is needed on an individual level to educate people about people with disabilities to give them a genuine opportunity to build a bright future,” he said.
In a message of encouragement, he urged differently abled individuals to always aim to fulfil their potential. “Believe in yourself,” he said. “Don’t stay in the background. Be confident and move forward. You have the right to build a full and independent life.
“Bahrain simply needs stronger awareness and collaboration across all sectors to ensure our users have a change to become fully integrated into society and given fair opportunities in the job market.
“While ministries have taken steps to hire people with disabilities and accommodate their needs, many qualified individuals still struggle to find work in the private sector,” he said, estimating that only about 20 per cent of differently abled individuals are currently able to secure worthwhile careers.
Mr Sultan urged more employers to look beyond the challenges and recognise the determination it takes for a person with a disability to simply attend an interview. “For many, it requires a lot of energy and effort and them showing up reflects their determination to succeed,” he explained.
He also drew attention to everyday issues that reflect a lack of public appreciation, such as thoughtless drivers occupying parking spaces reserved for the disabled. “This happens often in shopping malls, where enforcement is limited,” he said, adding that it shows that there is still work to be done in raising awareness.
Fortunately, he added, many Bahrainis and expatriates living in the kingdom continue to back the Bahrain Mobility International Centre’s continued efforts in supporting the disabled community.
Attracting new supporters would enhance its operation, with exciting plans on the horizon.
“We currently need new buses as our current ones are getting old and have a habit of breaking down too frequently,” he said. “Maintenance costs remain a heavy burden on the centre as the buses are crucial to safely transport many members to and from their homes.
“We also need more specialised wheelchairs which can greatly enhance quality of life of so many individuals.”
Currently, the centre supports around 120 people with various types of disabilities and, despite the high costs involved in offering services, charges are kept to a ‘minimum’.
“We strive to keep our services affordable,” Mr Sultan said. “Any contribution, big or small, is always greatly appreciated.”
Alongside its operational needs, the centre also has ambitious plans for the future, including the construction of a new sports hall to further enhance the physical and social well-being of its members. “We need donors and community members to help make this dream and vision a reality,” he said.
Established in 1979 by the hands of special needs young men and women, the centre has since created a range of services to help people with disabilities and their families live a fulfilled life. It contains an integrated swimming pool, inclusive of a ramp, kindergarten and physiotherapy, among other services.
For more details and to support the centre, contact 39678053.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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