Wednesday, May 29, 2024

Globe forges path towards inclusivity with disability sensitivity training

Cristina Guanzon, a recent Globe hire, has found that her deafness is not a barrier in the workplace

When Cristina Guanzon joined Globe just this March, she found no trouble collaborating and blending in. Even while living with deafness, Guanzon is able to seamlessly communicate with her colleagues.

“One of the first things my colleagues asked was how to sign some phrases and that I share my world through sign language classes. I appreciate my colleagues making an effort to sign simple greetings of “good morning” and “thank you” after meetings,” shared Guanzon, a Lead Expert for UI in Globe’s Product Engineering and Digital Growth (PDEG) team.

“They also willingly adjusted their communication methods, like speaking on my stronger side and allowing me to lip-read. Their patience and understanding touched me profoundly, reinforcing my gratitude for their acceptance,” added Guanzon.

Such employee feedback reflects Globe’s efforts towards workplace inclusivity, among them the conduct of a disability sensitivity training, which aims to make all employees feel valued and supported.

Recently, Globe held its first disability sensitivity training to give participants a better understanding about disability, how to tackle communications about disability, and ways to properly interact with PWDs in the workplace. 

The activity, held with key individuals and groups within the organization with support from the Philippine Business and Disability Network (PBDN), emphasized workplace accessibility for PWDs. 

"Through our disability sensitivity training program and partnership with PBDN, we are actively breaking down barriers so every individual, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute to our collective success. This is just the beginning of our journey towards building a truly inclusive workplace culture," said Renato Jiao, Chief Human Resources Officer at Globe.

Guanzon’s colleague, UI Design Manager Arvin John Mayor, said the training helped him understand why inclusivity in the workplace is important.

“This applies to workplaces, educational institutions, and public spaces, ensuring that we are treating people with disabilities with respect and dignity. This includes asking before offering assistance, being mindful of personal space, and communicating directly with the person,” said Mayor.

Such training is crucial for teams to ensure a friendly work environment for all, and Globe’s PWD employees already feel the difference.

Guanzon said the training allowed her colleagues to “empathize with and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities.”

It makes me feel hopeful that people and the world can be more inclusive. It reminds me that we hold the power to create environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued,” she said.

Globe’s proactive approach to promoting disability awareness and fostering a culture of empathy and acceptance is part of its commitment to establishing a workplace where all employees feel welcomed, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Its sensitivity training is regularly conducted for teams, squads and other employees with PWD members.

Stay updated on Globe's inclusivity initiatives by following its social media channels:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ProjectInclusionPH

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/philippine-business-and-disability-network/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PBDNph/

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/

ABOUT GLOBE

Globe is a leading full-service telecommunications company in the Philippines and publicly listed in the PSE with the stock symbol GLO. The company serves the telecommunications and technology needs of consumers and businesses across an entire suite of products and services including mobile, fixed, broadband, data connectivity, internet and managed services. It has major interests in financial technology, digital marketing solutions, venture capital funding for startups, and virtual healthcare. In 2019, Globe became a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact, committing to implement universal sustainability principles. Its principals are Ayala Corporation and Singtel, acknowledged industry leaders in the country and in the region.

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