Awards ceremony recognizes workplace inclusion

Watch above: BMO says more businesses hire persons with disabilities

SASKATOON – The Partners for Workplace Inclusion Program held an awards luncheon Thursday to recognize local businesses that have worked hard to foster equality.

“I think it’s important to celebrate the success stories that we’ve had in our community–really show the employers that have made partnerships with the program and hired people with disabilities that that’s appreciated,” said program organizer Angela Daigneault.

Ekrum Nabi attended the luncheon to hunt for prospective employers. He has a background in computer system technology, and speaks five languages.

“There are different opportunities out there, it’s just figuring out what my options are,” he explained.

Nabi was born with arthrogryposis–a condition that shortens his muscles and curves his hip joints–but said being in a wheelchair has never held him back.

According to a Bank of Montreal survey released Tuesday, 39 per cent of Canadian small business owners have hired an employee with a disability this year, up from 29 per cent last year.

“We’ve definitely seen an increase, especially in this past year, of employers really looking for long-term employees who are willing to train, and who are energetic about being employed,” said Daigneault.

Watch below: Partners for Workplace Inclusion in Saskatoon

Ten-time Paralympic Medalist and Saskatoon teacher Colette Bourgonje knows the importance of workplace inclusion.

“Taking some effort and time to groom someone could mean an employee that’s so grateful for one, and there for a long time,” Bourgonje explained.

Although PWIP has seen a lot of growth over the past year, program organizers said there’s more work to be done in Saskatchewan, and they will continue raising awareness.

This year’s two Employer of the Year awards for workplace inclusion went to the Stonebridge Home Depot and Sharp Auto Trim.