What is inclusion bridges (Abilities Power) ?

Inclusion Bridges (Abilities Power) is a comprehensive initiative launched in 2022 by Surge Marketing and Consulting to empower people with disabilities across the MENA region. The program aims to foster inclusivity and equity for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Egypt. Building on Surge Founder and CEOs experience in the field of disabilities, the program gained more visibility in 2023 where DELL Technologies partnered with Surge to launch the Empower Abilities Program for building the capacity of PWDs in IT. 

Concurrent with the new hype and awakening for inclusion of PWD in the Egyptian community as productive employees in 2023, Surge Marketing and Consulting launched Inclusion Bridges Initiative addressing three critical areas: economic empowerment, education, and societal integration. By focusing on these interconnected domains, 

Inclusion Bridges Initiative focuses on providing equal access to meaningful employment, quality education, and active social participation. 

To impact the lives of PWDs, the program is committed to working with all involved stakeholders at the central and local level including governmental organizations, non-governmental organizations, development agencies, private and multinational organizations, as well as individuals to implement inclusive practices, provide necessary support, and drive systemic change. Thus, the Inclusion Bridges Initiative assumes responsibly for making a positive impact in the lives of persons with disabilities of different age groups through three main interventions: Inclusive Workplace - Inclusive Education - Inclusive Society.

 Inclusive Workplace Program is designed to create a more equitable job market for persons with disabilities by addressing and overcoming the barriers that impede their entry into and success within the workforce. By focusing on comprehensive support across three main areas capacity building, employer engagement, and ongoing support the program can make positive impact on the employment of PWD in Egypt. In other words, the Inclusion Bridges Program of Surge Marketing and Consulting seeks to dismantle the barriers that hinder PWDs from fully participating in the workforce, while also working to change perceptions and build a culture of inclusivity within organizations. By addressing both the supply and demand sides of the employment equation, the program aims to create a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable job market for all. To reach this objective, the Inclusive Workplace program works on three major interventions to advance the employability and sustainability of PWDs workforce as follows:

A) PWDs Empowerment

Skills Assessment and Training: 

The program offers skills assessments to determine the strengths and areas for development for each participant. Based on these assessments, targeted training programs are developed to enhance employability, including both technical skills relevant to various industries and soft skills such as communication skills, emotional intelligence, time management, self-leadership, and other topics.

Career Counseling: 

Tailored career counseling services is provided to PWDs, focusing on identifying career aspirations, strengths, and potential career paths. This includes assistance with resume writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies. 

Job Matching Platform: 

A dedicated job matching platform will connect PWDs with job opportunities that align with their skills and interests. This platform will feature user-friendly interfaces and accessibility features to ensure that PWDs can easily navigate and apply for positions.

B) Employer Engagement 

Promotion of Inclusive Hiring Practices:      

The program  works directly with employers including top management         and their teams to promote and implement inclusive hiring practices. This       includes developing accessible job descriptions, training interviewers on       disability awareness, and creating equitable recruitment processes.

Employer Training Programs: 

Training for corporates is provided to employees on various aspects of inclusivity,       including understanding different types of disabilities, implementing       reasonable accommodations, and fostering an inclusive workplace culture.       This training is designed to address common misconceptions and equip       employers with practical tools and knowledge.

Creation of Inclusive Work Environments:      

The program will assist employers in making physical and digital       adjustments to their work environments to accommodate PWDs. This may       include modifications to office layouts, technology upgrades, and changes in work processes to ensure accessibility and inclusivity.

C) Networking for Sustainability 

Workplace Accommodations and Adjustments: 

Support is provided to both PWDs and employers to ensure that necessary accommodations are made. This includes helping employers understand and implement adjustments such as ergonomic workstations, assistive technologies, and flexible work arrangements.

Mentorship and Networking: 

A mentorship program will be established to pair PWDs with experienced       professionals who can provide guidance, support, and career advice.       Networking opportunities will also be created to help PWDs build       professional connections and gain visibility in their chosen fields.

Job Retention Services: 

To address challenges that may arise in the workplace, the program will offer ongoing support to PWDs. This includes regular check-ins, problem-solving  assistance, and additional training if needed to help PWDs thrive in their roles and remain employed long-term.

Expected Outcomes:

Enhanced Employment  Opportunities: 

By equipping PWDs to meet job market expectations and providing      targeted job placement services and career development support, the program aims to increase the number of PWDs securing meaningful employment      and advancing in their careers.

Improved Employer Practices: 

Through engagement and training of hiring organizations      managers and employees the Inclusion Bridges Program helps employers adopt more inclusive      hiring practices and create work environments that are inclusive and respectful for PWDs.

Sustained Employment Success: 

Ongoing support and mentorship contributes to higher job      retention rates and career satisfaction among PWDs, fostering long-term      success in the workforce.

The Inclusive Education Program (IEP) aims to create a comprehensive and supportive educational environment that embraces diversity and promotes equity for students with disabilities at the university level. This program also touches upon the foundations of inclusive education at the school level, ensuring a smooth transition for students as they progress into higher education. By addressing both systemic and practical barriers, the IEP seeks to empower students with disabilities, fostering their academic, social, and personal growth.

Strategic Goals:

1) Increased Enrollment: Achieve a significant increase in the enrollment of students with disabilities in higher education institutions.

2) Retention and Graduation Rates: Improve retention and graduation rates of students with disabilities by providing continuous support throughout their academic journey.

Key Objectives:

University-Level Focus

1) Accessibility: Ensure all university facilities, resources, and digital platforms are fully accessible to students with disabilities.

2) Inclusive Curriculum: Modify curricula to accommodate diverse learning needs, including the use of assistive technologies and alternative assessment methods.

3) Faculty and Staff Training: Conduct regular training sessions for faculty and staff on inclusive teaching practices, disability awareness, and creating a supportive learning environment.

4) Support Services: Provide dedicated services such as academic advising, counseling, mentorship, and career guidance tailored to the needs of students with disabilities.

5) Student Engagement: Encourage the formation of student-led groups and clubs that promote inclusivity and provide peer support.

School-Level Inclusion (Marginal Focus)

1) Early Identification: Implement early identification and intervention programs for students with disabilities to ensure they receive the necessary support from an early stage.

2) Teacher Training: Provide basic training for school teachers on inclusive education practices and strategies for supporting students with disabilities.

3) Transition Programs: Develop transition programs that prepare students with disabilities for the academic and social challenges of university life.

The Inclusive Society Initiative (ISI) aims to build a society that is accessible, equitable, and supportive for all individuals, including persons with disabilities (PWDs). This program will focus on fostering an environment where people with disabilities can participate fully in social, economic, and cultural life. The ISI will address societal barriers, promote inclusive practices, and raise awareness across various sectors, including public spaces, transportation, employment, and community engagement. The initiative will be implemented through a five-year plan with clear goals, activities, and milestones each year.

Key Activities:

1) Awareness Campaigns: Launch national and regional campaigns to educate the public on the importance of inclusivity, focusing on reducing stigma and promoting positive attitudes toward PWDs.

2) Partnership Development: Establish partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, private sector companies, and community organizations to collaborate on inclusive initiatives.

3) Policy Advocacy: Advocate for policy changes that promote accessibility and inclusivity in public spaces, transportation, and services.

4) Training Programs: Provide training for public service providers (e.g., transportation staff, healthcare workers) on how to accommodate and support PWDs.