Experts showcase models for inclusive employment at World Congress

Significance of the session

Blessing Ijeoma, Co-Chair of Inclusion International’s Employment Working Group, emphasised the session's role as a platform for exchanging lessons and experiences. The Working Group unites members dedicated to advancing inclusive workplaces. As both an advocate and a mother of a child with an intellectual disability, she highlighted that successful initiatives worldwide demonstrate inclusive employment is achievable across various countries and organisations.

Family-Led approach in Ontario

Among the models presented was the family-led approach of the Family Support Network for Employment (FSNE) in Ontario, Canada. Co-chair Ines de Escallon described how families united in 2018 to create employment pathways for relatives with intellectual disabilities facing barriers in the labor market. Drawing from her experience with her son, she stressed the importance of early preparation, stating, “Employment is a whole journey right from early years to school to graduation.” She noted that instilling habits like paid chores can help children learn responsibility.

Collaboration and accountability

FSNE collaborates with like-minded Canadian organisations to help families navigate systems and hold schools and governments accountable. De Escallon clarified that the network does not expect families to serve as job coaches or rely indefinitely on volunteering and readiness programs.

Innovative model from Nepal

A different perspective was presented by self-advocate Shiva Shrestha and program manager Bhusan Raj Raut from Nepal, showcasing the model developed by the Parent Federation of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (PFPID). Their comprehensive program includes pre-employment training, skills assessment, workplace adaptation, and personalised support. This model has successfully placed 17 trainees in jobs, with ten securing paid employment.

Success stories

Raut shared the success story of Ayushmman Manandar, a young woman employed at Cleanup Nepal, highlighting her daily routine, including her independent commute to work—an example of the independence and dignity that inclusive employment can provide.

Conclusion of the Congress

The World Congress 2025 “We Are Inclusion” continues in Sharjah until September 17, bringing together over 500 participants from 74 countries, including 152 speakers from 160 organizations across 59 parallel sessions. Hosted in the MENA region for the first time, the Congress serves as a leading platform for advancing the rights and inclusion of persons with intellectual disabilities, co-organised by Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services and Inclusion International, with the support of the Sharjah Government Media Bureau.