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The Ability For Success topic in April was “how to create an inclusive and diverse workplace effectively?” We have two guests from US this time. They share a similar goal which is to make the society a better place. Their motivations are different but equally inspiring. We discussed and exchanged ideas about the what the key elements are to create an inclusive and diverse working environment.
The last report of Starbucks Headquarters visit. I had an opportunity to meet Jessica Rafuse who is manager within the Equal Employment Opportunity team at Starbucks. Jessica has muscular dystrophy and uses a wheelchair. To empower employment for people with disabilities, Jessica works with Starbucks business units to develop individualized hiring strategies. I often hear from US companies, including Starbucks that “hiring the very best person for the job” is first priority. A person with disability often develops a powerful strength, which is developed by the disability. Jessica gave an inspiring example.
On the other hand, it appears that Japanese companies has not yet realized and recognized persons with disabilities’ strengths. I see Japanese companies often remove people with disabilities from “the very best person” from the beginning of recruiting process.
Continuously on the Starbucks report, I had a chance to talk with Adam Novsam who is a Deaf Starbucks partner and works as a Business Analyst. I was impressed when he shared his perspective as a Deaf person in the Starbucks Access Alliance meeting. He shared his interesting background and career experiences before he joined Starbucks. There are lots of differences between Deaf and hearing culture. I also shared my previous experiences of working with Deaf colleague in Tokyo.
Continuously on the Starbucks report, I interviewed Ms. Marthalee Galeota who is a manager, Equal Opportunity Initiatives and is also a nationally certified American Sign Language interpreter. Marthalee is like a professional “bridge.” She serves as an internal consultant sharing her subject matter expertise on new and existing initiatives, and also dedicates her efforts for Starbucks customers with disabilities by improving customer service and accessibilities at store.
Continuously on the Microsoft report, I found that Microsoft have implemented various kinds of systems, programs, and trainings to create equal opportunities and to promote inclusive work environment. I am curious how Microsoft creates a inclusive work environment and how they create great positive impact to the society.
One of the most influential and inspiring authors and professors visited Tokyo and I was very lucky to get a ticket to her seminar. The person is Tina Seelig. The session was about creativity. “Unlike physics, there are no shared vocabularies of creativity.” Tina shared her study on creativity and a framework, called the Invention Cycle, with us.