Sightsavers showcases stories of skills, employment ,entrepreneurship among PWDs

ISLAMABAD, Nov 05 (APP):Sightsavers showcased inspiring stories of young persons with disabilities building pathways towards employment and entrepreneurship at a special screening of success stories from its Ready for Inclusive Sustainable Employment and Entrepreneurship (RISE/E) project, held at Ramada Hotel, Islamabad.

Titled “Creating and Celebrating Opportunities for Young Persons with Disabilities,” the event brought together stakeholders from the development sector, disability rights organisations, government, employers and other institutions to recognise the achievements of young people and highlight the importance of creating equal opportunities for persons with disabilities in the world of work.

The screening featured stories of individuals whose journeys reflect how access to skills development, support and opportunities can help persons with disabilities pursue their professional aspirations, gain economic independence and participate meaningfully in society.

The event also featured a panel discussion titled “From Skills to Decent Work: Building an Inclusive Employment Ecosystem,” which explored the barriers persons with disabilities continue to face in accessing employment and entrepreneurship, and the role of employers, training institutions, policymakers and development organisations in addressing them.

Speaking at the event, Syeda Munazza Gillani, Director for Pakistan and the Middle East at Sightsavers, said “Creating equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities requires more than skills training. It calls for an enabling environment in which employers recognise talent, workplaces are accessible, and young people have the support and opportunities to pursue their professional ambitions. Through RISE/E, we are working towards making inclusive employment and entrepreneurship a reality. Real-life stories are powerful tools for changing perceptions, challenging stereotypes and inspiring action towards greater inclusion.”

Speakers highlighted that true inclusion requires shifting mindsets to recognise abilities, and building an inclusive economy where skills development is linked with employment and entrepreneurship to remove barriers for persons with disabilities.

The programme also included an open-mic session, allowing participants to share reflections on the stories screened and discuss practical steps towards a more inclusive employment ecosystem. The event concluded with key takeaways, a call to action and a pledge-signing activity, encouraging stakeholders to translate their commitments into meaningful action.

RISE/E works to improve access to sustainable employment and entrepreneurship for young persons with disabilities.                                                                    The initiative focuses on strengthening skills and employment readiness while encouraging employers and other stakeholders to address barriers and create more inclusive opportunities.