The ‘fab 40’ of determined young Bahrainis are proving that people with challenges can lead fulfilled lives and succeed in the workplace if given the opportunity.
Today’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities has allowed local groups to highlight programmes available to assist full integration and inspire more organisations to play their part.
The Bahrain Down Syndrome Society has announced a significant milestone by successfully placing 40 individuals with Down syndrome across reputed companies in the kingdom – a more than 50 per cent increase from last year.
“We reaffirm our dedication to building effective partnerships with public and private institutions, ensuring a promising future for our children and creating real opportunities that showcase their skills and capabilities,” said society executive director Ahmed Al Ali.
Mr Al Ali with one of the children from the Bahrain Down Syndrome Society
The achievement comes as part of its employment training services, with the aim of integrating those with the condition into the mainstream and helping them to maintain a sustainable means of livelihood.
The United Nations International Day of Disabled Persons aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society. This year’s theme is ‘Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress’.
Mr Al Ali revealed that a new contract for 24-year-old society member Saeed Albaqali, from Manama, will be signed today with Al Rashid Group. He has secured the post of sales associate for the company’s retail subsidiary, Home Centre.
“We are incredibly proud of Saeed and what he has achieved – all thanks to the wonderful work that the society is doing,” the new recruit’s father Mohammed Albaqali told the GDN. “He is eager to start. In fact, we’re travelling on a family holiday next month but when we told Saeed about it, he said he might not join as he will be busy with his job training!” added Mr Albaqali, who previously worked as a student adviser at the Education Ministry.
Studies have shown that people with Down syndrome are good workers. They often stay in their jobs longer than other workers.
They help make the workplace a happier place. They also make their work friends feel better.
This makes the whole work area nicer. Everyone feels good and works well together.
Because of this, people with Down syndrome are important to businesses, supporters say.
Saeed
Established in 1998, Bahrain Down Syndrome Society is a non-governmental humanitarian society that is concerned with caring for new-borns with Down syndrome. It works through the Down Syndrome Care Centre, which was established in 2001, with the aim of providing them with the necessary services.
The centre provides a wide range of services, from early intervention to vocational rehabilitation – guided by scientific methodologies and professional standards. Additionally, it also offers counselling to the individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
“The employment of 40 of our young adults is not just a number – it is a message that individuals with Down syndrome are capable of contribution and productivity, and that confidence in their abilities is the true key to their success,” Bahrain Down Syndrome Society chairman Adel Fakhro said.
Mr Fakhro
“Since its establishment, the society has been dedicated to elevating the services provided to individuals with Down syndrome and ensuring a supportive environment that enables growth, empowerment and full integration into society,” he added.
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that happens when a child is born with an extra chromosome, occurring in about one in 1,000 babies born worldwide.
The extra chromosome affects the way the child’s brain and body develop, leading to developmental delays, intellectual disability and an increased risk for certain medical issues.
The care centre’s director Dr Iman Ahmed highlighted the ‘remarkable abilities’ of the young talents, adding that the achievement is a community effort.
Dr Ahmed
“The individuals with Down syndrome have demonstrated remarkable abilities to learn, develop and adapt to work environments when provided with suitable programmes and proper support,” she said.
“We are proud to be part of their journey as they transition from care and development to productivity and independence.
“The employment of 40 of the society’s members is the result of a collaborative effort between families, the centre and supporting institutions. Our young adults prove day after day that disability is not a barrier but a motivation for determination and achievement.”
In the past, the Bahrain Down Syndrome Society has staged numerous activities, including walkathons, in support of the cause, working alongside with several other local groups in the kingdom to rehabilitate those with disabilities. One such group is the Bahrain Mobility International Care Centre located in Isa Town.
The Bahrain Mobility International premises in Isa Town
Commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the centre will host the ‘Bahraini Festival for People with Disabilities’, featuring a marathon and other entertainment.
The event will be staged on Saturday at Sama Bay in Galali, from 3pm onwards.
Bahrain Mobility International Centre was established in 1979 and has since been working to benefit special needs people of different ages and genders.
melissa@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))