Bishodh Jha
Virtual Assistant
Spinal cord injury

Bishodh Jha is from Nepal and is a person with disabilities.

During his bachelor’s studies, he was involved in a motorbike road accident that resulted in the loss of his leg and a spinal cord injury.

Before joining Genashtim, Bishodh worked as a Program Assistant at the National Federation of the Disabled Nepal. In April 2025, he joined Genashtim as a Virtual Assistant. Since then, he has found the work environment to be trusting, respectful, and supportive.

Working at Genashtim has been a very positive experience for him. The remote work setup has provided flexibility and a healthy work–life balance, allowing him to grow professionally. Through his role, he has developed skills in organizational communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving. He has also learned how to manage responsibilities independently while collaborating effectively with team members across different regions.

Bishodh feels motivated in his role and is proud to be part of the Genashtim team.

ESG Business Institute is a one-stop learning and professional services portal, aiming to encourage Business to create positive impact by how they make profit rather than how they spend it. Genashtim is instrumental in developing and maintaining this portal, by bringing together world-class experts and seasoned practitioners, developing ESG In Business Certificate featuring 2 certificates from Cornell University, and more. Find out more HERE.

10% of Genashtim Pte Ltd and Genashtim Sdn Bhd’s profits are donated to DG-Bridge, a registered charitable foundation in Hong Kong. We also provide training and technical support to help DG-Bridge set up sustainable solutions for persons with disabilities, refugees and other under-privileged communities in the region.

YPO (The Young Presidents’ Organization) has 30,000 CEOs across 142 countries, with 22 million employees, generating US$ 9 trillion in revenues. SEA Lestari was set up in 2020 as the first social impact chapter in YPO. Genashtim has been entrusted to set up the Lestari Academy, which is a digital platform to connect the YPO community, world-class resources, and other stakeholders in learning and moving the needle in Business as a FORCE for Good.

B Corp is the global certification of for-profit companies who meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. Genashtim is the representative for B Lab, the organization behind B Corp certification, for Southeast Asia except Singapore. We promote B Corp certification, and help companies with their B Corp certification journey.

ESG Talent is driven by a singular mission: to cultivate visionary leaders who propel sustainability, innovation, and impact to organizations that need them. The focus lies in connecting organizations with exceptional ESG professionals who redefine industries, champion ethical governance, and accelerate the transition to a more resilient world.

Through strategic talent hiring, leadership empowerment, and global collaboration, ESG Talent bridges the gap between ambition and action, ensuring that every hire becomes a catalyst for meaningful change.

Together, the goal is to shape a future where sustainability isn’t just a goal, but a standard.

SBF is the apex business chamber, representing 27,200 member entities in Singapore. Since 2019, Genashtim has been running the CSR in Action-Biz Impact Training for SBF and SBF Foundation, to convince SMEs to incorporate ESG principles into their business.

Stewart Gomwe
Refugee
Senior Finance Admin

“Prior to becoming part of Genashtim, I have held positions in multiple companies, including roles such as Accountant, Finance Manager, and Country Director. The thing that stood out to me the most at Genashtim was the optimistic outlook of the staff, the inclusive work environment and the opportunity to work remotely captured my heart, enabling me to work close to my family.

The opportunity to connect with people from different nations across the world is a thrilling experience. Being part of the Accounts Department is giving me great exposure to collaborate with different people across the globe, which is assisting me in refining my communication, decision-making, and social interaction skills.

However, virtual work poses difficulties, particularly in countries such as Zimbabwe, where obtaining high-speed, dependable, and cost-effective internet access is a major issue. In addition to that, we experience long hours of unscheduled electricity power cuts seriously disrupting remote working. To mitigate this challenge, Genashtim has assisted me to procure solar back up equipment under the Solar Panel Assistance Program, which I appreciate.”

Sivananda Kumar Velautham
Physical Impairment (Hemiplegia due to stroke)
Remote IT Support Specialist

“At 48 years old, life took an unexpected turn when I suffered a stroke. In an instant, everything changed. The independence and abilities I had taken for granted were suddenly compromised, leaving me to navigate a new reality as a person with disabilities (PwD). The road to recovery was long and challenging, but the greatest struggle was finding a way to reconnect with the world and rediscover a sense of purpose.

For many, a stroke can feel like the end of a chapter, but I was determined to see it as a new beginning. However, as time passed, I realized that getting back into the workforce was not going to be easy. Traditional workplaces were not always accommodating, and the opportunities seemed limited. The frustration of wanting to work but feeling boxed in by circumstances began to weigh heavily on me.

It was during this difficult time that I discovered Genashtim. More than just a company, Genashtim became my second chance at not just working but thriving. As an organization dedicated to inclusivity and empowering individuals with disabilities, Genashtim offered me the opportunity to contribute meaningfully while accommodating my unique needs.

Genashtim provided the flexibility and support I needed to perform at my best. Here, I was valued not for what I couldn’t do but for what I could contribute. The work was more than just a job; it was a way to regain my confidence and prove to myself that my capabilities extended far beyond my physical limitations.

Every day, I am reminded that the path I’m on is not about returning to who I was before the stroke but about embracing who I am now. Genashtim has given me the platform to do what I love and to be part of something larger than myself.

This journey has taught me that life after a stroke can be rich with opportunities. While my experience has undoubtedly been shaped by the challenges of being a PwD, it has also been defined by resilience, growth, and the unwavering belief that it’s never too late to start anew. Genashtim was the key to unlocking that new beginning, and for that, I am profoundly grateful.”

Muneer Ahmad
Locomotor disability on the right leg due to polio
Independent Verification Analyst

“I am Muneer Ahmad, hailing from India. I hold an engineering degree in mechanical engineering. I have a locomotor disability in my right leg due to polio since the age of 1, but that has never stopped me from pursuing my goals.”

Background Before Joining Genashtim:

Before joining Genashtim, I worked for a couple of multinational companies in roles ranging from customer care executive to compliance and operations. My most recent experience was as a Product Compliance Associate, where I was responsible for safeguarding customers and upholding the integrity of the platform. I played a key role in enforcing measures to prevent the sale of illegal, hazardous, and unsafe products. Through these efforts, I contributed to the establishment and maintenance of a secure, compliant, and customer-centric marketplace.

Current Experience at Genashtim

In my current role as a Verification Analyst in the ESG department, I am deeply involved in collaborative efforts with a global certification body and various companies to streamline Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) assessments. I meticulously review B Impact Assessments, offering insightful feedback on social and environmental performance data to ensure the accuracy of the certification process. My commitment to transparency and consistency guides decision-making, aligning with B Impact Assessment Standards. I also excel in delivering high-quality customer service, efficiently managing communications related to standards and certification. This role allows me to contribute to a seamless and informative experience for stakeholders, reinforcing my dedication to fostering sustainable and responsible business practices.

I thoroughly enjoy working in the ESG department, where I help organizations reduce their environmental impact, improve social responsibility, and achieve long-term sustainability goals. Our collective efforts are transforming the global economy to benefit all people, communities, and the planet. Every project I work on is unique, with its own business model aiming to create a positive impact on society and the environment.

Overcoming Struggles

Before joining Genashtim, I was working remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic, but as the situation improved, my previous company started calling employees back to the base location. Being in northern India with my office located in the south, relocating was not an easy decision due to my recent marriage, family responsibilities, economic considerations, and the time-consuming daily commute.

Genashtim’s fully remote model provided the flexibility I needed. I no longer have to spend hours stuck in traffic, and I can take care of my family while maintaining a great work-life balance. I’m thankful for this opportunity as it allows me to work during hours that suit me best, ensuring my commitment to both my work and my personal life.

Personal Reflections

I first learned about Genashtim through a social media message announcing that the company was hiring for 15 Independent Verification Analysts (IVAs). Little did I know then that this opportunity would transform my life in ways I could never have imagined, both economically and professionally. I am incredibly thankful for the chance to be a part of this amazing organization. Genashtim’s mission of providing sustainable, meaningful, and gainful employment for the disadvantaged, particularly those with disabilities, in a 100% work-from-home model, deeply resonates with me. Genashtim’s special focus on diversity, inclusivity, and eLearning distinguishes it from other organizations. Taking inspiration from Genashtim’s core principles and mission, I am now working on a project aimed at making a transformational and positive impact on the broader community. Although it is still in the early stages, I am optimistic about the outcomes and look forward to contributing even more to this meaningful cause.

Favorite Quote:

“Add life to days, not days to life.”

Mariela Deancy Parcon
Independent Verification Analyst
Visual impairment- retinal detachment

“My career as a professional secretary started in secondary school, where I fell in love with the subjects: English language, shorthand writing, and typewriting. From there, I pursued further courses and training until I joined the civil service as secretary to a legal officer in the Town Planning Department. Continuous studies and training propelled my career to the level of executive secretary/assistant to general managers and chief executive officers in several private sector organizations. My final major position in corporate Jamaica was executive secretary to the chairman and chief executive officer of a major company in the shipping industry. It was while performing in that role that I received an injury on the job that changed the course of my life and eventually led me to conduct an online search for a part-time remote job, which landed me in Genashtim. I was with that company for almost eight years.

I currently hold the roles of QA/Content Jr Executive and Operations Assistant at Genashtim. In the first-mentioned role, my major task is to listen intently to recordings of EPiC Online sessions and assess students’ baseline performance in the first session and track their progress over the following twenty-nine sessions at intervals of ten sessions. Other less-recurring tasks include reviewing My Learning Universe (MLU) and Singapore Business Federation (SBF) courses along with other assignments given occasionally. In the role of operations assistant, I create calendar links that enable both students and coaches to join the EPiC Online sessions, and I monitor these sessions to ensure that everything progresses smoothly from start to finish, while preparing to take corrective actions if necessary. I also perform several other tasks pertaining to this role.

Memorable moments of former days at Genashtim include the times in 2020/2021 when Hemashree Krishnan, Madje Lagare, and I worked together in both the Language Department and the Marketing Department under the leadership of Nancy Ong and Kim Soon Yap. Memorable moments of the present time include the fun we enjoy in the Quality Assurance Department with our daily morning greetings, friendly chit-chats, and many laughs-out-loud.

Prior to joining Genashtim, I had to overcome many struggles and hurdles. Firstly, as a result of the injury, I had lost a job (by resignation) with one of the highest-paying companies in Jamaica. Not only that, but it was also the company from which I had planned to retire because I loved my job and my relationship with the company’s many employees.

This loss necessitated my return to my family home in the rural area on two occasions, where I became almost dependent on family members, buying and selling small items and offering office services for which there was little demand. Subsequently, I lost almost everything I had owned on three separate occasions due to varying circumstances. I am still in the process of making a comeback from this. Additionally, my body assumed additional pain in several areas, one believed to be a spin-off of the first injury occasioned by a Chikungunya outbreak in 2014 and another by a second injury carelessly caused by a supermarket worker who ran a large, loaded trolley into my right side. These additional pain issues remain with me.

Genashtim has not only made it possible for me to earn an income and support myself for the major part, but the company has also made it possible for me to make myself as comfortable as possible working from home. Many times, I have had to abandon my chair and take my laptop to the bed to continue my work. And, as they would say, it does not take rocket science to understand that I could not do this in a brick-and-mortar company.”

Lurline Halliman
QA/Content Development Jr Executive
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

“My career as a professional secretary started in secondary school, where I fell in love with the subjects: English language, shorthand writing, and typewriting. From there, I pursued further courses and training until I joined the civil service as secretary to a legal officer in the Town Planning Department. Continuous studies and training propelled my career to the level of executive secretary/assistant to general managers and chief executive officers in several private sector organizations. My final major position in corporate Jamaica was executive secretary to the chairman and chief executive officer of a major company in the shipping industry. It was while performing in that role that I received an injury on the job that changed the course of my life and eventually led me to conduct an online search for a part-time remote job, which landed me in Genashtim. I was with that company for almost eight years.

I currently hold the roles of QA/Content Jr Executive and Operations Assistant at Genashtim. In the first-mentioned role, my major task is to listen intently to recordings of EPiC Online sessions and assess students’ baseline performance in the first session and track their progress over the following twenty-nine sessions at intervals of ten sessions. Other less-recurring tasks include reviewing My Learning Universe (MLU) and Singapore Business Federation (SBF) courses along with other assignments given occasionally. In the role of operations assistant, I create calendar links that enable both students and coaches to join the EPiC Online sessions, and I monitor these sessions to ensure that everything progresses smoothly from start to finish, while preparing to take corrective actions if necessary. I also perform several other tasks pertaining to this role.

Memorable moments of former days at Genashtim include the times in 2020/2021 when Hemashree Krishnan, Madje Lagare, and I worked together in both the Language Department and the Marketing Department under the leadership of Nancy Ong and Kim Soon Yap. Memorable moments of the present time include the fun we enjoy in the Quality Assurance Department with our daily morning greetings, friendly chit-chats, and many laughs-out-loud.

Prior to joining Genashtim, I had to overcome many struggles and hurdles. Firstly, as a result of the injury, I had lost a job (by resignation) with one of the highest-paying companies in Jamaica. Not only that, but it was also the company from which I had planned to retire because I loved my job and my relationship with the company’s many employees.

This loss necessitated my return to my family home in the rural area on two occasions, where I became almost dependent on family members, buying and selling small items and offering office services for which there was little demand. Subsequently, I lost almost everything I had owned on three separate occasions due to varying circumstances. I am still in the process of making a comeback from this. Additionally, my body assumed additional pain in several areas, one believed to be a spin-off of the first injury occasioned by a Chikungunya outbreak in 2014 and another by a second injury carelessly caused by a supermarket worker who ran a large, loaded trolley into my right side. These additional pain issues remain with me.

Genashtim has not only made it possible for me to earn an income and support myself for the major part, but the company has also made it possible for me to make myself as comfortable as possible working from home. Many times, I have had to abandon my chair and take my laptop to the bed to continue my work. And, as they would say, it does not take rocket science to understand that I could not do this in a brick-and-mortar company.”

Linges Warry Apparao
Talent Acquisition Coordinator
Lung Problem

“Before joining Genashtim, I worked as a model, content creator, and entrepreneur. I’ve always wanted a full-time job with the flexibility to work from home, and Genashtim is my first opportunity to do so. Currently, I am a Talent Acquisition Coordinator, a role I truly enjoy because it allows me to interact with a variety of personalities every day.

Previously, I relied on my parents for my personal and medical expenses. Now, I can proudly say that I am financially independent, covering my personal and medical needs on my own. Additionally, I am self-funding my Bachelor’s degree.”

Therese Margareth Saranza
Client Support Executive
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on 11 August 2015

“We can either watch life from the sidelines or actively participate…either we let self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy prevent us from realizing our potentials or embrace the fact that when we turn our attention away from ourselves, our potential is limitless.”

– Christopher Reeve

This is how I have seen life for the past few years after my fifth major surgery in December 2011. I thought life would continue limiting me from realizing my potentials. Being unable to breathe on my own due to spinal cord impingement because of vertebral malformation since birth, self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy enveloped most of my thoughts all day long. Life was so boring until one day I remembered Genashtim’s dream and vision of helping PWDs realize their capabilities and to be productive members of the society. I tried applying to Genashtim again and I was fortunate that I was given another chance to be part of the team.

Role in the business

I was hired as Quality Assurance Assistant for four months then I was transferred to the eCornell Department as Client Support Executive. I assist potential learners in Japan and the Philippines with their inquiries and concerns about the eCornell programs.

Background

After having worked with Genashtim for almost two years now, life has changed. I look forward to each new day to interact with new clients and help them in their needs. I am more financially independent now and capable of helping my kin who are financially less deprived. Genashtim has helped widened my circle of friends and acquaintances and has enriched me with the idea that despite my limited mobility, I can still be a productive individual. This company has enhanced my self-worth and confidence by providing me with challenging tasks and responsibilities which at first I thought would be impossible on my part due to the fact that I am quadriplegic and ventilator-dependent. I am greatly indebted to the management of Genashtim who have afforded me their trust and confidence and to my colleagues and teammates for their unwavering support.

Joan Lai
Marketing and Corporate Communications Coordinator
Visually-impaired
 

Joan’s background is centered on her degree in Early Childhood Studies. She is more than a teacher to her students who are toddlers and infants since they have developmental impairments that necessitate extra attention. Aside from the caregiving duties she gladly performs despite being visually handicapped herself, she keeps them occupied with her thematic activities. Her enthusiasm for designing and delivering lessons to children motivated her to develop her own teaching materials. She speaks and writes Mandarin, Malay, and English.

Adrian Gail Cabuang
Multimedia Developer
Mobility-impaired
 

Adrian Gail Cabuang was born in the Philippines. He studied B.S. Information Technology and Bachelor of Fine Arts at AMA Computer College and the Technological University of the Philippines from 2008 to 2011. Adrian is not only a professional visual and digital artist but also has additional skills in social media marketing, lead generation, affinity design, and WordPress administration. He is fluent in English, Filipino, and Bisaya. He also has exceptional communication skills, connecting and relating to others with ease.

Interests: Arts, video games, and music

Madje Lagare
QA Language Specialist
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on 3 August 2016

Before my association with Genashtim, my existence had fallen into a pattern of monotony, bereft of any mental stimulation after the completion of my postgraduate studies. However, Genashtim emerged as an expansive gateway, illuminating the path toward the exploration of my latent capabilities and the realization of my life’s purpose. I regard this esteemed institution as the catalyst that propels me forward, akin to the “wind beneath my wings.” This metaphorical wind may assume varying intensities, from gentle breezes to formidable gales, yet in either manifestation, it empowers me to soar to new heights. Such is the transformative effect that this institution has had on me. Similarly, Genashtim bestows upon me the push to venture into discretionary tasks that demand precision and meticulous discernment. Although I remain far from attaining perfection, my continuous involvement with Genashtim has gradually transformed me into an improved version of my former self. Embarking upon my seventh year this 2023, I initially commenced my journey as a content development assistant, only to evolve to the role of a QA language specialist responsible for ensuring the quality of our endeavours. I remain eternally grateful to Genashtim for the perpetual joy it bestows upon me, leaving an indelible smile on my face every single day of my career life.

Role in the business

Madje’s tasks in the Quality Assurance Department include evaluating Singapore Business Federation (SBF) on modules assigned, responding to SBF learners’ feedback, reporting SBF-related matters to the QA manager, evaluating the assessment reports posted by the QA assessors, writing assessment reports (ARs) and investigating the root cause of incident reports (IRs) related to EPiC sessions as well as drafting IR reports, coordinating with the EPiC Monitoring Team (EMT), Client Support and Language Department for EPiC related inquiries, content creation and designing of content using the Articulate software, and doing the tasks of a Business Writing coach/mentor.

Background

I was barely two years old when I contracted polio for not having been promptly immunized against the disease.

Hadirah Yusuf
Operations Assistant/Client Support Executive
Cerebral Palsy
Joined Genashtim on 5 December 2016

“Before I started working with Genashtim, I worked as a trader at DermagaTujoh Sdn Bhd. I had to give up the job due to my parents’ health issues. I have been a volunteer for the Malaysian Advocates for Cerebral Palsy until now. In 2016, I got married and moved to Bangi, Selangor and was a jobseeker for a few months before I got hired by Genashtim.

Genashtim means a lot to me and my family because the company has solved some of the issues in my life. For example, working from home enabled me to become more productive as I can save my energy from having to commute to work. I love the new environment because I can communicate with clients and colleagues from all over the world.”

Role in the business

I started working as a remote technician in the Abled Online Department. I consider myself fortunate to be able to learn so many new things from my teammates. In addition to learning how to fix a variety of problems, I also learned how to communicate well with people.

I was later assigned to the Monitoring and Client Support Departments. While monitoring EPiC sessions, I simultaneously do my Client Support Executive’s tasks which include the monitoring of leads from eCornell as assigned, with prompt follow-up and high conversion rates. If a customer wishes to enrol for a course, I provide the necessary help in enrolment, assisting the customer until he or she finally registers for the course. Following registration, I dispatch an invoice to the customer for payment. My job requires me to understand the eCornell website and all other related tasks.

Background

Hadirah has cerebral palsy which affects half of her body, but she still walks independently without any equipment. She always thinks positively because according to her, positive thinking and attitude create happiness and success. In her opinion, disability is not a reason to give up. Everybody deserves to succeed in life.

Nadia Saidi
Executive Assistant to the CEO
Cerebral Palsy
Joined Genashtim on 6 August 2012

I grew up in a small, simple and supportive family with three siblings. I did not experience going to kindergarten but with the help of my parents, I went to primary and secondary school where I was the only one with a disability. I felt so nervous and wasn’t confident in the new environment as a student. However, with the encouragement of my parents who were concerned about my future and career, I managed to complete my secondary school. Then, I was advised to pursue my studies further but due to financial problems and the lack of facilities for the disabled at most colleges and universities, I decided to find a job which suited me, a PWD who is wheelchair-bound. I hopped from one job to another facing a lot of inconveniences in commuting and other various workplace challenges.

Then, Genashtim came just at the right time. I first heard about the company from one of the foundations for the disabled in Kuala Lumpur. They emailed me the company profile and even advised me to apply for the job opening at that time which they said matches my work experience and limitation of mobility. So, I resigned from my work to give it a try at Genashtim where I don’t have to travel to work and can be independent.

As a PWD, it was not easy finding a job out there. Most employers simply don’t want to hire PWDs saying that they are difficult to handle, have mobility issues, lack capabilities and that they can’t accommodate PWDs with the necessary facilities. Despite working many years in the industry, I was still told during interviews that I was not qualified.

Going through Genashtim’s website and profile several times, I felt that Genashtim was the only home-based company that has given a lot of opportunities and trust to PWDs since 60% of the staff are PWDs. Since then, I began my career and enjoyed working for Genashtim because I have flexible working hours. It is also very convenient for me because I can do my tasks within the comforts of my own home.

Also, I love working for this company because they believe that PWDs have a lot of capabilities, potential and talents. They allow their PWD staff to share their skills and talents with their team members and contribute to the success of the company. Genashtim has also helped me to be financially stable because I can earn money to support my family and buy the things I need and want.

I am very grateful for the trust placed in me, and the opportunity to show my skills and be a part of Genashtim as Executive Assistant to the CEO.

Mohd Rizal
Business Development Support Executive
 
 

Mohd Rizal is an accomplished scholar who has a master’s in Public Policy and an International master’s in Information Management from the University of Malaya. During his undergraduate years, he was a dean’s lister who enjoyed being a member of extra- curricular organizations. His outstanding leadership and communication skills, as well as his abilities in technology, equipped him in achieving his goals and objectives.

Rhodora Francisco
Customer Engagement and Training Administrator
 
 

Although Rhodora was faced with issues in speaking and hearing due to her cancer treatments, she is a courageous Filipina who has overcome cancer.
Prior to that, she has earned a human resources bachelor’s degree with a major in cruise management and hotel services. She has worked in several positions in the hospitality industry before moving on to a different field as an English online tutor with certifications in TESOL and the Marlins Test.

Sasinthiran Segaran
Junior LMS Administrator
 
 

Sasinthiran hails from the Malaysian state of Selangor. He earned a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering degree from Universiti Tenaga Nasional. He became an OKU after an injury left him with restricted finger mobility. Nonetheless, he remains a friendly and responsible person who enjoys the excitement of learning new skills because he can easily absorb new knowledge.

Vanessa Velazco
Quality Assurance Specialist
 
 

Vanessa Velazco received a bachelor’s degree in Modern Languages from Zulia University in Maracaibo, Venezuela. Her English skills are advanced, and she can communicate in basic Italian and intermediate French. Vanessa is an expert in Microsoft, Drive Sheets, and HR. She had worked as an English teacher, an outsource instructor, an academic coordinator, a receptionist, a data entry assistant, and an accountant before joining Genashtim as a Quality Assurance Specialist.

Kelvin Ricafort
Mobile Apps Developer
Cerebral Palsy
Joined Genashtim on May 13, 2013

“Prior to Genashtim I predominantly worked and maintained computers for my family and relatives. I also reformat and manage computers, it is what I do best, and is also my source of income. For this I received between Php 200-500 per job, depending on the complexity of the problem. However, there are long periods that I go without any work to do.

I searched the internet to find companies that employ PWD’s and also allow for home based employment. This is how I came to find out about Genashtim. I’m thankful to them for giving me the opportunity to work and to share my potential within the company. With Genashtim, I’m able to serve clients internationally. My family, relatives and friends are proud of my accomplishments. Because of this job I am able to buy gadgets I have always wished for.”

Role in the business

Kelvin currently works as Assistant Secretary and Mobile Apps Developer for the Company.

Background

Kelvin has the disability at birth. He is the eldest of 2 siblings. He managed to have a normal life with the support of his family. He has coped with his condition by having a positive outlook in life and strong faith. He was able to finish his schooling without failing grades.

Kelvin likes feeding and taking care of his pets, particularly fighting fish and guinea pigs. He also likes computers and music.

Anita Hai
Coach – MeS
Visually-impaired
 

“I am visually-impaired. Before joining Genashtim, Most of my work experience was in customer service. There were times I felt like I was stuck in a rut and yearned to try something different. I am an extroverted person and like to make friends. Since childhood I have had the dream to be a teacher. This dream seemed unobtainable from the day I became a blind.

The day I became a CNPIC coach for Genashtim, my dream came true. Every time I have a session with a student I consider it as an opportunity to challenge myself. I also regard it as a chance to communicate with friends. I would like to thank Genashtim for providing me with a part-time job. It adds variety to my life whilst also giving me the opportunity to improve my English.”

Role in the business

Anita is a coach for our CNPiC (Chinese Proficiency in Conversation) program. She assists our clients in improving their Mandarin skills.

Background

Anita graduated from SUFE with a Major in MIS. Over the recent years, she has been engaged in the world of the stock market. She also has part-time job as a home based English teacher. In her spare time she keeps her finger on the pulse on the developments in global economics. She is also hooked on music, cooking and making friends from all over.

Anita’s motto – “Never ever give up as I’m in progress.”

Kimi Iqbal
Business Development Executive
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on June 01, 2016

“Life is pretty much the same before Genashtim. Genashtim lets you work from home. It has made my life pretty much easier to be working from home.

I am very honored working here with others PWDs. Genashtim encourages PWDs to work from home. It also advocates hope for people to never stop believing in what one is capable of doing.”

Role in the business

I have been working with Genashtim the past 4 years.

When I first started out in Genashtim, I was in epic online department. Right now, I am assisting as a frontline in retail and corporate for our eCornell products for Singapore and Malaysia clients. I am also assisting in the sale and business development department.

I have gain more knowledge on all our products since I first begin. I am very thankful to be given the opportunity to learn even more every single day.

Background

I am wheelchair bound, due to a bike accident I met back on 2008. I fractured my spinal cord and can\’t walk anymore. I have lost my legs mobility

Ma Leong Leong
Client Support Executive
Tremors
Joined Genashtim on February 01, 2015

“I was unemployed when Genashtim offered me a job in January 2015.”

Role in the business

I have two functions. Firstly, I am Client Support Executive for eCornell. I respond to enquiries on our website and I follow up with them and try to get them take up eCornell programs. I also assist in enrolment and registration. For this job, my boss is an amputee.

My second function is as accounting assistant. I keep full set of accounts using QuickBooks. And for this job, my boss is a polio victim. I am in a virtual office and operate mainly through SKYPE. I also use tools like Dropbox, WhatsApp, and Viber. Every day, I communicate with my clients and colleagues in many countries.

Background

I suffer from tremors. But that did not stop me from getting 9 distinctions for my Malaysian O-levels, and an Accountancy Degree from University of Malaya, among other academic qualifications.

My wish is to have a permanent and stable job, and I aspire to become a coach. I like working in Genashtim because of flexibility of time. And also people who are there, I got along with them, like them they are teachers.

Marco Del Valle
Marketing Assistant
Mobility Impaired (Spinal Cord Injury)
Joined Genashtim on October 16, 2019

Before joining Genashtim, I felt incomplete. I was trained to be a virtual assistant and I did some freelancing work as an assistant doing search engine optimization (SEO) and analysis and making recommendations for website improvement.

Working in Genashtim has been a good experience because the Company embraces me despite my disability and exercises patience and understanding, thus allowing me to learn more and to grow in my job. The Company sees me as an abled person and values me as a useful member of society. This has been a life-changing experience and I am determined to focus and to apply my knowledge to the role I perform.

Role in the business

My tasks include research, analysis, SEO on-page optimization, Google analytics review and recommending website and social media improvement.

Background

My disability is spinal cord injury thoracic-12. The injury occurred on December 13, 2010, in Coatzacoalcos, Mexico, while I was attempting to rescue my colleague from injury during an incident in our chemical tanker (ship). Subsequently, I was in a coma for six days. I now suffer from incontinence and leg paralysis and I am unable to walk.

B Market Builder

B Corp is the global certification of for-profit companies who meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability (read more). Since being certified in 2015, Genashtim has made it to the ranks of Best-for-the-World among B Corps every year since. In 2018, Genashtim was appointed B Market Builder representing B Lab (the organisation behind B Corp certification) for Southeast Asia. In 2020, Genashtim Sdn Bhd became the first B corp certified company in Malaysia.

Ee Beng Tan
Section Manager – Environment, Social, and Governance
Visually Impaired (Stargardt Disease)
Joined Genashtim on January 01, 2020

Before joining Genashtim, I worked in a social enterprise in Kuala Lumpur for three years. I spent at least two hours traveling and transportation cost was my biggest expense.

Genashtim has given me the opportunity to work from the comfort of home yet in a corporate-world environment. It has been a great experience working with the Company and I feel I am contributing to society.

Role in the business

I am a business development executive in the Company and now move as the section manager of Environment, Social and Governance. , and I have been learning much since I started working here. My duties include connecting and communicating with clients, understanding their corporate training needs and recommending the relevant learning/training services offered by Genashtim.

Background

I am visually impaired due to Leber congenital amaurosis, a genetic disorder. I have less than 20% eyesight and mostly rely on my other senses and technology to compensate for my condition. At the moment, the cause of my disorder has yet to be fully known by the experts.

Victor Valicillos
CCTV Monitoring Administrator
Scoliosis
Joined Genashtim on April 01, 2020

My life before Genashtim was somewhat boring and disappointing. I wasn’t able to get a job. I worked as a freelance writer for various clients around the world. I also did academic research on HR processes. I delved into proofreading of materials and any professional tasks that I can find online. Now, I feel refreshed with this stable job that provides me daily activities in my current function here in Genashtim.

Genashtim brought a great light to my life. It is the first company that offered me a contract for remote work. I have a degree in Human Resources and being hired to work as a professional in my area of expertise is the best thing that has happened to me. Genashtim also motivates me to help disabled people in different parts of the world, offering them a vacant position in the company. This is something that is gratifying. Genashtim is an example that should be followed by other companies globally.

I have been part of Genashtim’s staff for 5 months already. I started out as an HR / Operation Assistant. At the beginning, Genashtim allowed me to do training on formatting CVs. I also did a training on becoming a Virtual Office Assistant and on HR Policy at Genashtim before starting my current role which is being a CCTV Monitoring Administrator.

I was not born with scoliosis. When I was 18 to 20 years old, I began to experience a pain on my spine. I went to see the doctor and a trauma specialist. After having Magnetic Resonance exams, they diagnosed me with incipient or an early-stage scoliosis. They advised of a possible surgery on my spine but later on recommended I do physical exercises and rehabilitation with physical therapists. This physical therapy on my spine reduces the curvature that is present. I might have acquired this due to bad posture or excess pressure placed on my spine.

Joyce Grajo
Quality Assurance Analyst
Mobility-impaired
 

“Generally, before working in Genashtim, I was a certified full-time mom to my 5-year-old son. That moment, I experienced a lot of rejections from other companies as I tried to apply several times outside. I felt down, stressful and I couldn’t afford to pay my own bills due to lack of income. Also, I even tried to join Networking companies because they said that I could gain money just by recruiting people. But it’s never easy especially for my situation. Thank God and he used my friend to refer me to his friend ‘Kuya Mac’. Kuya Mac referred me here in Genashtim. After few days, I was notified that there’s a scheduled interview. I was grateful and very happy. I did not miss that opportunity.”

“Genashtim is like a partner to me. I have been committed for 3 years and I will continue doing so. It’s like having a relationship with someone you can’t afford to lose. This company is a necessity to me and for my family.”

Role in the business

At first, I worked as a part-time QA assistant, and after few months, they considered me as full-time already. I’m working as a QA Analyst and full-time coach until now. We are evaluating sessions and assessing students. By assessing them, we need to determine their level and the appropriate content for their lesson. We are also the one who’s observing the performance of the coach. By this, we are the one who’s deciding what will be the penalty if the coach failed to do a successful session. In addition, we are also giving our feedback to the coaches via email, chat or call.

Background

My right leg was amputated above the knee because of bone cancer. I was 9 years old back then. I usually play soccer outside our house and I already felt the pain but I was not spilling it out because I was afraid that time. So, I chose to keep it to myself. Then one day, when my friends and I were playing a Filipino game called “Patintero”, I got slipped into the ground and finally fell down. I felt nervous as I realized that my leg was broken already. I’m crying and asking my friends for help. My mom brought me to the hospital. After few months, the doctor told us that I have a cancer which is the reason why my bone was not reconstructing. And finally, in November 2000, after consulting doctors in three different hospitals, we tried our luck at the St. Luke’s hospital. The doctor decided to amputate my leg because it’s risky if we wait any longer. After that, I had a chemotherapy for 6 months and finally became cancer free until now. Thank God for all the blessings and for another life.

Aini Azlita Binti Ahmad Kamal
Administrative Support Assistant
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on December 01, 2016

“My life before Genashtim was quite hopeless. I often get jealous of my fellow friends who are busy with their own career while I’m being jobless. I worry about my living expense as I do not have income to support my life. When I joined Genashtim, I have the chance to improve myself. I become more confident in my life.

Genashtim helps to build and utilize my collegiate and community experiences. A part from that, the most important thing is that I can afford my living expenses. I’m also able to support my parents’ utility bills.”

Role in the business

Aini is one of our Operations Assistants. Her task includes: Ensuring that all EPiC Online Sessions start and end well, and performing other EPiC monitoring tasks.

Background

Aini is from Perlis, Malaysia. She has Muscular Dystrophy since she was about 2 years old.

Ng An Ting
Accounting Assistant
Mobility Impaired/Spinal Cord Injury
Joined Genashtim on October 1, 2017

“In 2004, I had an accident that caused spinal cord injury. Subsequently, I was admitted to the hospital for three months. I then attended a disabled centre where I learned most of my independent skills. Moreover, I was able to continue my studies in university and successfully graduated in 2016. In 2017, I worked in a tuition centre as a teacher, but both transportation and the centre were inflexible to accommodate a wheelchair user, so I decided to quit the job and look for a new job, until I found Genashtim.

Genashtim considers the needs of disabled persons and refugees. The company has given me an opportunity to work with people around the world and because of this, I have gained a bundle of knowledge and soft skills.”

Role in the business

I have been designated as an Accounting Assistant and an EPiC Bilingual Online Coach in Genashtim. As Accounting Assistant, my tasks include keying in data into the accounting software, preparing invoices, and following up on invoices, when necessary.

Background

Anne has had spinal cord injury since she was 24 years old. She moves around using a wheelchair and modified hand-controlled car.