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.

Ma. Luz Largosa
Senior Digital Marketing Executive
Hearing Impaired
Joined Genashtim on 9 September 2019

“Before joining Genashtim I was a full-time housewife looking for an online job to support my husband in our financial need while taking care of my lovely daughter.

Genashtim made it possible for me to obtain a job and as a person with disability (PWD), I have been able to fulfill my dream of being a work-from-home mom. I am thankful for the many opportunities I have had to enhance my learning on the job. The Company offers many services, one of which is the marketing of eCornell’s online programs, in which I am currently involved.

Role in the business

I work in the Marketing Department as a part-time marketing assistant. In this position, I perform several tasks including research, social media marketing and management, email marketing, lead generation and administrative tasks.

Background

I am a hard of hearing person. I acquired the condition when I was young due to an ear infection. I wear hearing aids in both ears and am thankful for the improvement they offer because it is very difficult to live with hearing loss.

Macleen Nabong
Learning D Manager
Orthopedically Impaired
Joined Genashtim on 1 June 2012

Before I joined Genashtim, looking for a job was really difficult for me because of the discrimination against PWDs. Since I graduated from college, I was given a chance to work in a government agency only because I was related to one of its high officials.

Even then, it was short-lived. My employment there lasted for only six months, despite fulfilling the civil service eligibility requirements that would qualify me to become a permanent employee.

I am very grateful to my half-brother for supporting my family and lending me some startup capital to put up and manage a small Internet café, where I developed my computer skills. But this was still not enough to support our needs, so I desperately searched for an online job. Luckily, I found Genashtim.

Joining Genashtim was very easy; no qualifications were needed as long as I had the determination and could do the job. I am very happy that I found here the convenience of working from the comfort of my home and being able to look after my kids every day. This is also where I gained experience working in the corporate industry.

Only a few months after I started working at Genashtim, my work and contributions were highly appreciated, and I was promoted to the position of IT Specialist. I am very thankful for the opportunity to finally lead my own team and do more for the company.

Role in the business

Mac started as our remote technician and was promoted to IT Specialist for Abled Online, a division of Genashtim. His tasks include supervision of clients and the company’s technical support staff on Abled Online, and other IT-related matters for the company.

In 2014, he was assigned to handle Learning Management Systems where he became a certified Moodle specialist. At the same time, he was assigned to lead a team of Instructional Designers and Developers for our company’s eLearning Services.

Background

Mac was born with an orthopedic impairment (no left arm from below the elbow). Despite this, he graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Science Major in Banking and Finance. Due to the difficulty in securing a job, he studied again for another year where he took up Internet programming courses. He is now happily married with four kids.

Miguel Andre de Castro
Abled Online QA Lead/Supervisor
Bipolar/ADHD
Joined Genashtim on 6 March 2018

“Years ago, before joining Genashtim, I was an IT technician who worked at a few schools. At first, it was a great experience, and I had a good time and learned a lot. At the last school, due to a fateful incident, I decided to resign from academia. In the interim, I joined a manufacturing firm and did on-the-job training as a web tester, web programmer/designer, accounting clerk and IT tech support staff member. I also did some self-employed IT-related and miscellaneous tasks given to me by family, friends, and neighbours to help me survive.

Genashtim for me is a company that is PWD-friendly, hence I decided to work here. I have worked longer here at Genashtim and have a close and cordial relationship with other staff members. The company has helped me to further develop my skills from being able to do mere technical tasks to being able to do industry-level tasks. I have also learned how to be customer-oriented and professional in my communication skills. Genashtim has given me relevant training for which I would have to pay a high price otherwise and this has helped me to save money. This company has also helped me to pay my bills, hence preventing me from being a burden to my dad and has allowed me to find some great friends in my colleagues Kelvin, Darko, Gabriel and Bahman. The company has also helped me to kick-start my love of magic cards as without this job, I would not be able to afford a well-tuned deck.”

Role in the business

I work as a remote PC technician or support representative. I remotely connect to another person’s computer so that I may help resolve their computer-related problems. The main focus is to access the computers of clients and colleagues situated anywhere in the world. I also do tasks like file transferring, desktop sharing, file synchronization, command line or guest accessibility, and CCTV monitoring.

Background

Miguel said that he got Bipolar and ADHD from birth but due to stressors and lack of action to remedy his mental issue from his childhood, it got worse over the years. It affected his social skills, career, personal life, love life and family. According to Miguel, it is hard for him since his disability is not obvious unless someone talked with him, lived with him or hung out with him. Additionally, he has a hard time reading longer words/numbers and saying certain words, unless someone guides him into it.

Hoang Duy
Web Developer
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on 22 February 2013

“Computers are my passion. I was exposed to computers from an early age because I was housebound. The plus side to this was that I had loads of time on my hands to learn, play and work with computers. Four years ago, my brother (brother of a friend), who had graduated from university with a degree in IT, started me on a journey of learning programming and website development. Ever since I have done a lot of self-study and I am now able to design and write the programming for a simple website, manage a domain and coordinate the hosting of websites.

I have an insatiable desire to learn about and work in the field of information technology. Some time ago, I tried my hand at sales over the internet. I created a website to make money with Google AdSense. This did not prove to be effective. The money I earned could not cover the costs.

I have not earned any certificates, nor have I graduated from any university. My immobility made it difficult for me to find jobs. I tried to do sales over the internet, doing Google AdSense, offers and surveys before I joined Genashtim. Now, I’m working as a web developer in Genashtim. Genashtim has given me more than a job, it has given me a friendly environment with many new friends. I have learned a lot from here and up to this day, I am still in the process of learning many new things for my development as a person. But above all these, Genashtim has given me the confidence and the ability to prove to myself that I can earn and care for my family regardless of my disability.”

Role in the business

Duy programs and customizes website systems for internal and external clients. Mainly handling tasks for LMS (Moodle), Survey System (EES – Employee Engagement Survey), ATS (Applicant Tracking System), Support Ticket System and others.

Background

When Duy was four, he had a fever for three days which resulted in his inability to walk for some time. As time passed, his muscles gradually shrank, and his legs and hands became weak. He tried to maintain some mobility though and continued his studies. He graduated from high school in 2009. At this point, he could not walk nor stand without support and was thus wheelchair-bound. His hands were too weak to make use of a manual wheelchair. In 2010, after numerous hospital trips, he was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type III, an incurable disease. His health will continue to decline as told by his doctors.

Hemashree Krishnan
Content Writer and Reviewer
Mobility Impaired (Wilson’s Disease)
Joined Genashtim on 16 June 2019

Life before Genashtim was shaky and uncertain. I was a freelancer, but the income was unsteady. I often worried how I would manage if sales dropped or if I fell sick and could not complete my orders.

Genashtim means the world to me. I am truly grateful to the Company for recruiting me and providing me with the means to not only survive, but also thrive. My career in Genashtim has been a learning and growing experience.

Role in the business

My current position is content writer. I write content for the Marketing Department, which includes social media posts, website content and content for the Company’s clients and projects. I am also an online writing coach for our Business Writing and Mentoring programme.

Background

I have Wilson’s disease and am wheelchair bound. This disease is genetic, and I first experienced symptoms when I was 19 years old. I was normal and completed Form 6 prior to the manifestation of this illness.

Villy Vilano
Client Support Manager
Visually Impaired
Joined Genashtim on 10 June 2010

Due to complications with measles as a child, I progressively lost my sight and was totally blind by the age of 18. I managed to complete my degree in secondary education. Working life as a high school teacher was challenging. I needed a fellow teacher to do a lot of things for me in class.

I set out to look for other jobs which I could perform independently, hoping that employers would be impressed with my achievements. My optimism and hopes quickly faded after a series of rejections. What was worse was when people were courteous and told me they will get back to me, but never did.

Others can call it just a stroke of luck. I call it destiny, that I came across Genashtim. I was their first blind English coach conducting classes online. I was able to perform my tasks at par with my fellow non-PWD coaches, using assistive technologies, and got paid as much as them.

After a year, I was promoted to become the very first QA assessor. Being a blind person with a keen sense of hearing, I would listen to the recordings of other coaches’ sessions and make recommendations.

With the growth of Genashtim, I presently lead a team of QA assessors. Additionally, I am an Account Manager where I “look” after some key clients. Recently, I also took responsibility for our Content Development Department, where I supervise the creation of lesson materials for our learners. I now have more than 10 staff reporting to me; some are people without any disabilities.

More than just a livelihood, working for Genashtim has given me a sense of pride and confidence.

Loo Shao Chuo
Web Developer
Visually-impaired
 

Shao Chuo resides in Kedah, Malaysia and is a graduate of Universiti Industri Selangor (UNISEL) with a Bachelor of Computer Science (Software Engineering) (HONS). Before becoming a management trainee at Genashtim, he worked as a Senior Service Engineer. A team player, he performs well under pressure and meets deadlines. Working in a diverse group has equipped him to use his cross-communication skills well.

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.

Christianto Chandra
Client Engagement and Training Administrator
Mobility-impaired
 

Christianto is a multi-talented man who also serves as a leader in the disabled motorcycle community. He studied web design, took IT classes, and learned about digital literacy.

He was a top graduate of the YPAC National ITC program, a level 8 Google Local Guide, and a national para shooting champion. Chris’s expertise includes PC troubleshooting, social media management, photography, and graphic design. On top of that, he is also a member of the Agape Choir.

Thevaraj Victor
Senior QA and Content Specialist
Senior Citizen
 

With over 34 years of experience in the airline industry, Theva was mostly familiar with Cabin and Catering Services Operations Management, Customer Services, Human Resources, Quality Management, Administrative Management, and Training. Despite a busy schedule, he was able to obtain many professional certifications, including an MSc in Tourism and Hospitality Education from Bournemouth University in the United Kingdom. He received his Ph. D. in Education from Asia e University in 2017 with his thesis “Implementation and Maintenance of ISO 9001: A Case Study in a Malaysian Training Academy.”

Roldan Pagaduan
Content Developer, Reviewer and Editor
Orthopedically-impaired
 

Roldan is a licensed teacher who has a strong command of the English language. He has experience in copywriting, product research and writing product descriptions. He also acquired content editing skills that he puts to effective use in his current endeavors. He hopes to enhance his skills as he goes along to create valuable and quality content.

Apart from all this, Roldan is the acting president of SIBO which is an organization that advocates for reading literacy.

Ee Beng Tan
ESG Services Manager
Visually-impaired
 

Ee Beng is from the Malaysian city of Puchong in the state of Selangor. Despite his partial blindness, Ee Beng makes the most of any opportunity that comes his way. He obtained a diploma in Mass Communication (Public Relations) and a Bachelor of Public Relations (Honors) degree from Tunku Abdul Rahman University College in Kuala Lumpur. He interned at the International Association for Human Values (IAHV) and worked as a Project Coordinator for Dialogue in the Dark. Knowledgeable in Microsoft Office, Office 365, and Google Drive, he is also a certified NVDA screen reader and speaks Malay and English fluently. Find out more about Ee Beng’s stories and his career development in the interview with Inclusion Factory China HERE!

Roberto Heneral
Senior Creative and Graphic Designer
Mobility-impaired
 

Roberto B. Heneral is a Filipino national who has over 20 years of experience in web-based design, user experience and pathways, digital project strategy, and agile project management across the design and development lifecycles. After gaining background knowledge in Computer Science from Manuel L. Quezon University, he earned a degree in Sociology at CAP College Foundation, Inc. and took a Professional Teaching Course at the University of the Philippines – Open University.

Since 1993, he has held many creative design positions and is now the Senior Creative and Graphic Designer at Genashtim.

Syazalina Radzuan
QA Specialist
Cerebral Palsy
 

Nur Syazalina is a well-known OKU activist. from Tangkak, Johor. She won the Outstanding Student Award in the Special Needs Category for SPM Year 2012, and she also finished in the top five in an MBA project about Cerebral Palsy Awareness in 2019.

Her academic credentials include degrees from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia in Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resource Management and Masters of Business Administration in Management. She has an ACCA Certificate in Global Business Services and has interned at the Malaysian Human Resource Ministry’s Pejabat Tenaga Kerja Muar as an administrative assistant.

Mazrina Mahat
B Corp Community Builder
Orthopedically-impaired
 

Mazrina Binti Mahat, a Malaysian electrical engineer, is currently a Process Management Trainee at Genashtim. She earned a Diploma in Electrical Engineering (Electronics) from Universiti Teknologi MARA Pulau Pinang and a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Electrical Engineering from Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam.

Mazrina was trained at the headquarters of Jabatan Kerja Raya Malaysia (Malaysian Public Works Department) and TM One. She also attended several other training programs and took CompTIA A+ courses. She’s skilled in MatLab, PLC Programming, and Microsoft Office applications. This lady from the Perak town of Gopeng is fluent both in Malay and English.

Khaleswary Manokra
Verification Analyst
Motor-function impairment
 

Khaleswary Manokra hails from Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia. She wore many hats in her previous job experiences, having been a general clerk, secretary to the director of a preschool, and a preschool teacher. She is currently pursuing a degree in management at the Open University Malaysia.

Khales is skilled in Microsoft software and fluent in three languages – English, Malay, and Tamil.

Eyozhavel Vidamo
QA Assistant
Orthopedically-impaired
 

Eyozhavel L. Vidamo grew up in Bacoor, Cavite, the Philippines. Eyozhavel completed her secondary education at Saint Francis Institute Learning and Business High School. She later earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, with a Major in Financial Management from San Beda College Alabang. She is presently an MBA student at the De La Salle University Dasmarinas.
Eyozhavel is a Syspro System and Quickbooks System expert who has also worked as an accounting assistant in a church ministry. She enjoys cooking, playing the keyboard, and teaching Sunday School children.

Bernard Nathan
Verification Analyst
Mobility-impaired
 

Bernard Nathan is a young Malaysian entrepreneur from Petaling Jaya, Selangor, who is goal oriented. He co-founded two start-ups and is well-versed in eCommerce and social media marketing. The polyglot Bernard also works as a Sales and Marketing Executive at Genashtim. With a Diploma in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Management (Hons) from SEGi University, his key competencies include Sales and Marketing, Digital Strategies, Business Development, Strategic Planning, and Customer Service.

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

Delia Mira
Operations Assistant/Client Support Executive
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on 10 January 2010

Before Genashtim I used to work as a web content writer/researcher for a private concessionaire. The problem with this kind of work was it required most of my time in front of my computer – meeting deadlines and other stuff. I was then poorly paid, not enough for my daily expenses and most especially, my fixed obligations such as rental fees and billings for my electricity and internet connection.

The chance to work at Genashtim has helped me a lot in terms of working hours, financial stability and the chance to work with fellow handicapped teammates even if our work is done virtually. It is really a wonderful opportunity for me to be a part of Genashtim.

Role in the business

Delia is in charge of monitoring all EPiC coaching sessions done every day. She ensures that the coaches are online before their scheduled sessions, and also conducts location test calls to students and coaches whenever necessary. She refers coaches to the IT Team for their PC issues.

Background

Delia was afflicted by poliomyelitis at four months old, but her disability did not hinder her to pursue her aspiration to go to school and live a normal life. She became a working student while in college, holding various positions in the first cooperative of PWDs registered in the country. She has started to live independently.

Michael Miranda
Deputy to Section Manager, Web Development
Orthopedically Impaired
Joined Genashtim on 1 February 2011

“I was born with a congenital deformity in both legs and thus orthopedically impaired since birth. I never had the opportunity to play with my childhood friends.

Before working for Genashtim, I was running a small computer shop. The shop offers basic computer tutorials and assistance to IT students with their programming assignments. Income from the shop was very sporadic and barely sufficient to meet all our family’s expenses, not to mention the expenses to keep the shop in operation.

Joining Genashtim has provided me with a sense of financial security knowing that I now have a regular monthly income to support my family. Genashtim has a novel approach to employing PWDs. Most companies avoid hiring PWDs due to the assumption that additional costs are needed to accommodate them in the workplace. Genashtim’s innovation in developing a home-based employment system has eliminated the barriers faced by PWDs wanting to be employed. Examples are the challenges faced by PWDs while commuting, special needs at the workplace and more. Genashtim views its PWD employees as assets and believes in their inherent capabilities. They also provide programs to enhance their employees’ current skill sets.

At present, I am the Web Master/Developer maintaining the websites of Genashtim. I also administer different domains and hosting accounts of the company.

Role in the business

Michael works as Web Master/Developer for Genashtim. His tasks include creating, developing, and launching websites for the company.”

Background

He was born with a congenital deformity of the lower limbs. He was able to walk with a limp until the age of three. His parents were incredibly supportive. Michael had a relatively normal upbringing and attended a regular school in his hometown. He took up Civil Engineering at UP but came 1 semester short of finishing his course. Later, he ventured into the fray of Computer Programming at Adtech Computer School which has also led to his employment as a teacher at the same school. Apart from this, he also does freelance web design.

Angelyn Asuncion
Client Support Executive
Orthopedically Impaired
Joined Genashtim on 1 August 2011

“Before joining Genashtim my life was pretty simple and I spent my days volunteering for a local NGO. I received no income though an allowance was given at times.”

Now that I am a part of Genashtim, I have a sense of personal satisfaction and fulfillment as I am now able to provide for myself and my family. I started as a part-time staffer, helping in the QA department, and was very thankful when I was promoted to a full-time position in May 2012 as this meant an increase in my earnings as well. I consider this a particularly good opportunity to sustain our daily lives and future.”

Working with Genashtim is challenging. I’m always willing to learn and seek ways to develop myself. I am doing things that I never thought possible and am willing to continue working with the company as long as Genashtim needs my services. I love Genashtim!”

Role in the business

Angelyn is working as a virtual assistant for the QA Team. Her tasks include researching diverse topics as well as storing and filing EPiC Online session audio recordings. She also assists with preparing QA reports for the team.

Background

Angelyn was born with hemimelia, a developmental anomaly characterized by the absence or shortening of the lower portion of one or more of the limbs, in Angelyn’s case the absence of her right arm. It was concluded that this was a result of her mother contracting German measles during her pregnancy. This did not stop her from achieving her goals in life. She completed her studies with a scholarship from NPDRC, via the Liliane Foundation Philippines, where she was volunteering before joining Genashtim.

Amalina Hares
Section Manager. Learning Support Services
Visually Impaired (Stargardt Disease)
Joined Genashtim on 11 May 2020

My name is Nur Amalina Hares, and I am from Malaysia. Before joining Genashtim, I was a national athlete and captain of the Malaysian women’s national goalball team. We competed in various international tournaments, our biggest highlight being the bronze medal in the 2017 ASEAN Para Games held in Kuala Lumpur. I also worked as a general assistant with a Malaysian company that comprises several business ventures. I had completed a TESOL course and was looking for an online platform to teach English. A friend mentioned Genashtim’s EPIC online coaching program to me and their system intrigued me.

After doing a little more digging into Genashtim, it became clear that this was where the next step in my career should be. The company’s ethos and mission to bridge marginalized persons to the global economy stood out to me, so I figured instead of just being a part-time English coach, why not join them full-time as a staff member. Genashtim has allowed me to foster a healthy work-life balance. Working from home allows me to carry out my professional duties and still have time to tend to personal responsibilities like family and household chores. Because Genashtim employees are scattered all over the world, I can virtually connect and build friendships with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, thus expanding my cultural knowledge.

Role in the business

I started off in the English language section under the Language Department. I then moved to the Business Development Department where I now work as a training coordinator.

Background

I am vision impaired. At the age of 12, I was diagnosed with a genetic eye disorder called Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP). However, I was not convinced that I had RP because I was not experiencing all the symptoms that someone with RP should be experiencing. After a few years, I underwent a genetic test to determine exactly which gene in my body was malfunctioning. It was found that there were mutations in the ABCA4 gene, and this commonly leads to Stargardt Disease. So, I now tell people I have Stargardt Disease. It is a progressive condition, so my sight will worsen over time.

Vicky Suarez
Recruitment Support Specialist
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on 8 February 2010

“Life was pretty tough and boring before I became a part of Genashtim. I was always worried because I needed funding for my medications, medical supplies, and other personal needs. I was not covered by insurance before joining the company.

My life changed when I joined Genashtim. It has affected almost all aspects of my life: financially because I’m earning a stable income; mentally because I learn many things every day; socially because I meet new people, especially other PWDs; and emotionally because I was able to deal with different emotions on different things. I’m happy with my job and still hope to travel to other places and learn other languages. I would also like to buy a new and comfortable house. We’re always worried that any time our house will be demolished because we are just “squatting.”

Genashtim is different because of its goal of employing deserving PWDs. It looks for new ways we can compete in the corporate world.”

Role in the business

Vicky started in the organization as a secretary. After 9 months, she was promoted to acting HR Supervisor and later to HR Officer. She recruits staff worldwide to fill positions for all teams in the company. She assists the HR Manager on various matters and is also assisting the Accounting team in handling payroll and other small financial reports.

Background

Whilst working in Saudi Arabia as a pharmacist in 2004, Vicky was involved in a car accident which damaged her spine and left the lower half of her body paralyzed. With the help of her family and friends, she remained positive and continued aspiring for a new career. Before joining Genashtim, she was a part-time web content writer.

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.

Nancy Ong
Section Manager, Language
Senior Citizen

Meet Nancy, a senior citizen living a meaningful life!

As the Section Manager of the English department, Nancy contributes her experiences and expertise in the English language. Not only that, but she also lives a fulfilling life of a retiree and does not allow age to limit her to continue contributing to society.

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.

Kim Soon Yap
Sales and Business Development Manager
Mobility Impaired/Quadriplegic
Joined Genashtim on 16 August 2016

“I worked part-time as a Business Development Executive at a private company before I joined Genashtim. Working at Genashtim is different. It is like a big family where everybody is willing and ready to help and teach you. Our people focus on your abilities rather than your disabilities.”

Role in the business

Kim Soon joined Genashtim as a Content Development Assistant who did research and tested apps and courses for the company before his promotion to the post of Sales and Business Development Manager. His current role involves research and analysis of market trends, demographics, pricing schedules, competitor products, and other relevant information to develop sales and business development strategies for new business opportunities. He also works closely with other departments on special projects.

Background

A spinal cord injury from a car accident left Kim Soon a quadriplegic. Find out more about Kim Soon and his career development in the interview with Inclusion Factory China HERE!

Ryan Allegado
Chief Technical Officer
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on 1 September 2009

“Before being employed by Genashtim, our financial situation was not very good. We did not have enough money to sustain our daily needs and we had no choice but to ask money from my family or borrow money from friends and other people. We really had to tighten our belts to survive. I was working as a freelance web content writer with several employers back then, but my income was not sufficient, not to mention I had to go through sleepless nights just to beat the deadlines. The income did not even commensurate with the hours and work involved.

On September 1, 2009, Mr. Thomas Ng hired me to work for Genashtim as his Executive Assistant. My employment with Genashtim has totally changed my life in terms of career and financial status. I cannot believe that I am now working in a corporate environment in an executive position. After three months of hard work, I was promoted to be part of the Business Development Team and then later on, commissioned to be General Manager for Abled Online, a new business venture of the company.

With my work, I am now earning a decent income, enough to sustain our daily needs without needing to borrow money again. Now we can have good food on the table and some extra money to spare for leisure and savings.

I must say that my job with Genashtim is one of my greatest achievements. It is also very fulfilling. Working with a company that recognizes the things that you can do rather than your disability is worthwhile. My dream is simple, to secure my family’s future and to be part of this company as it continues to grow and succeed.

Genashtim is different in the sense that it operates virtually with all of its employees working from home. It is also one of a kind because it provides equal employment opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), even in key positions of the company. It is rare to find a company that maximizes the skills of PWDs for its own business advantage and provides a decent income as a return for good service.

I consider my employment with Genashtim a blessing and I am very happy and thankful for it. I am so proud to be part of Genashtim.”

Role in the business

As Chief Technical Officer for Abled Online (www.abledonline.com), a new business division of Genashtim, Ryan oversees all aspects of developing the business, including product development, training and recruitment, and operations.

Background

At the age of two, Ryan was afflicted with Poliomyelitis resulting in his inability to walk for the rest of his life. Because of his disability, he uses a wheelchair to move around. With the support of his parents, Ryan finished high school and entered college to study Computer Science. For several years, Ryan worked for Bigay Buhay Multipurpose Cooperative holding various administrative positions. Because of his experience with the NGO, he was chosen to participate in a three-month training in 2000 with the Agape Exchange Program in Kanagawa, Japan. Through the training, he developed his skills in graphic design. He established a small computer shop in 2003. With his experience in the computer business, it has expanded his technical knowledge of computers. Later on, he became a freelance article writer.

Jett Esguerra
Section Manager, Abled Online
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on 15 May 2013

“I am a self-confessed introvert but I’m able to be more engaging with people as time goes by. My vices include online games, horror movies, tinkering with tech stuff and Rubik’s Cube. I’d love to say I’m a simple guy with a normal life, but then you’ll see my nose triple in length. I’m not into the drama of life or being sad because of my reality. I love to laugh and joke around. We are not that blessed when it comes to money, the main reason I was not able to finish my studies, but that did not stop me from learning on my own and with the help of my friends and family. I believe my life is not one that most would want or dream of having. However, my faith has taught me that everything happens for a reason. I will be great, and I vow not to have just an ordinary ‘get by’ life.”

Role in the business

Jett is the Section Manager of Abled Online, a division of Genashtim. He oversees the Abled Online Support Team and CCTV.

Background

Jett contracted polio at the age of four. Unfortunately, it affected both his feet. His disability did not hinder him from trying to be good at what he loved to do, exploring every corner of life and even going out with his friends. However, as his mobility worsened, the option of being able to work became less viable. Being wheelchair-bound meant not only higher transportation costs but also an unfortunate increase in employment discrimination.

Being employed by Genashtim was one of the best things that has happened to him. It not only made his dream become a reality, but it has also given him a sense of fulfillment as he was able to help his family. He enjoys the working environment and the opportunity to work with and learn from colleagues.

Leigh McIntyre
ESG Executive
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on 1 June 2011

After resigning from my previous job and losing my life partner in 2009, I felt like life was meaningless. I spent most of my time on social networking sites to distract myself from the deep sadness I was feeling inside, but slowly I realized that this was just dragging me down, and it kept me from earning money to pay my bills.

I decided to attend a three-month course at SPDMI and received an offer to start working with Genashtim while still attending the course. In June 2011, I joined the company as a Business Development Assistant.

Later on, I became a Sales and Marketing Assistant for eCornell for more than a year before I was transferred to a different department – the EPIC online department. After a few years, I became the EPIC Online Section Manager.

As Genashtim was my first online job, it changed my career path and daily life. It enabled me to improve my communication skills by dealing directly with our clients, coaches, and colleagues.

I appreciate what Genashtim is doing for the marginalized community where I belong – the people with disabilities. The privileges they provide by making it possible for people like me to work from home have had a huge impact on me. As a wheelchair user, it is not easy for me to go to an office on a daily basis, especially considering the expenses and time spent traveling.

My wish for Genashtim is that it will grow bigger and stronger, enabling more people to continuously inspire others who feel hopeless because of their condition.

Role in the business

Leigh was the Section Manager for the eLearning programs in Genashtim. Currently she works at the ESG department as an ESG Executive.

Background

Leigh contracted polio when she was 11 months old. Because of her strong will and her mother’s support, she was able to finish high school in a regular scholastic environment. There, she was given recognition for being the “Most Persevering Student”.

Before changing her career path, Leigh first became a prompter with Christian Child Refuge and Sp-Ed Center, a school and organization catering to the needs of the children who need Special Education, presently known as The Birthright Educators Foundation Inc. From there, she was promoted to various positions until finally she became an Assistant to the Executive Director.

Leigh has travelled both locally in the Philippines and abroad – in Hong Kong and Europe. She is now married and lives in Canada.

Ruben Capuli
Client Support Administrative Assistant
Orthopedically Impaired
Joined Genashtim on 10 July 2017

“Before joining Genashtim, I was unemployed. A long time before that, I had owned and operated an Internet shop, which I eventually closed. While I was unemployed, my wife was the only one that worked, while I took care of the children. Sometimes I would ask my siblings to help us financially just to make ends meet.

I am very grateful to Genashtim for the job I now have and for my ability to earn an income to help my family with our expenditures. Genashtim has given me renewed hope and the ability to provide for the needs of my family.”

Role in the business

At Genashtim, I am a member of both the eCornell team and Abled Online. I perform tasks assigned to me by Villy, our Client Support Manager. My duties are mainly with eCornell, but whenever time allows, I help Abled Online by providing technical assistance.

Background

Ruben has been affected by polio since he was a year old.

Eric John Sulit
Web Developer
Mild Cerebral Palsy
Joined Genashtim on 1 March 2020

Before joining Genashtim, I was a freelancer in software and web development for three years. My clientele included students as well as small and medium enterprises. I used technology to bridge the communication gap between me and my clients. I had previously worked as a software programmer with Arvin International Marketing Inc, the #1 supplier and distributor of salt in the Philippines. After five months, I resigned from the company due to the Philippines’ extreme road-traffic conditions which affected my punctuality to and from work.

I started to seek a job in 2018 and 2019 because I needed to earn an income to pursue my goals and secure my future despite having mild cerebral palsy. Obtaining a job was difficult because I was always judged based on my condition rather than on my abilities and qualifications until I found Genashtim. This company has ignited my self-confidence and has been both a blessing and a symbol of hope for me. It has elevated my financial status and facilitated learning on the job while I perform my tasks. I admire the CEO and his vision to build a future for disadvantaged people through an online presence that can withstand many natural disasters and pandemics. I enjoy my career here and am excited to work in a team that imparts many useful skills to me.

Role in the business

I joined Genashtim on 1 March 2020 as a web developer. My role in the web development team is to create and update the company’s websites and fix any existing bugs on the sites.

Background

I developed mild cerebral palsy before I was born due to a slip-and-fall accident my mother experienced. My disability was discovered during my pre-school years when it was observed that I stuttered and was unable to talk well. This condition worsened with age until I was finally taken to the hospital and diagnosed with mild cerebral palsy.

Raj Kumar Selvaraj
Verification Analyst
Quadriplegic/Mobility Impaired
Joined Genashtim on 1 December 2011

“I am a qualified engineer by profession, and before an accident that changed things for me, I worked in a managerial position for a well-known multinational company in Malaysia. I’d confidently say that I was financially and socially sound, and pretty much settled in life.

Genashtim for me was a breath of fresh air, coming just at the right time. Working with Genashtim has given me a sense of focus and allowed me to keep faith in myself and my abilities, despite my current medical condition. My role as Process Manager demands a lot of structured organizational management, implementing existing and new processes, and overseeing work processes to ensure the business runs smoothly and effectively. With my previous experience in management, I’m grateful that this role has come along once again.

My aspirations are quite simple – to recover completely, and serve society to the best of my abilities. I feel like I have already started doing this currently, and a complete recovery from my current condition will only allow me to do more than I can now.

What I find different about Genashtim is its core values. Genashtim is a unique organization that is sensitive to more than just one cause, and that’s what makes it stand apart from others. This organization believes in equal work opportunities, doing its part for Mother Nature, and serving a pressing need in today’s world – improving communication globally.

My daily inspiration is “If you have faith, absolutely anything is possible once you set your mind to it.”

Role in the business

Currently, Raj works as a Verification Analyst for the B Lab project.

Judith Acosta
Learning Designer
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on 21 March 2018

“Prior to this present job, I was more of a homebody with a mini retail business well-known as a “sari-sari store” here in the Philippines. But the business was idle at most times due to the tight competition in the vicinity. Despite having one, I could hardly run the business without manpower.

Some years ago, after taking a short course and training in medical transcription, I got employed for some time and was hoping I could attain a home-based job. However, the health privacy act forbade it. Then, I also worked as a customer care representative for telecommunication services. My limitations and condition deprived me of pursuing this career further.

Despite all these suffering, setbacks and emotional depression, everything that has happened has led me to believe in luck and the purpose of my existence. I believe that getting accepted here in Genashtim was my destiny. Genashtim offers equal opportunity to differently-abled people, asylum seekers and individuals who are eligible, especially those with (high) potential, ability, determination and a mindset of success.”

Role in the business

“My various positions in this company are as a researcher for Content Development Department, quality assurance assistant for QA Department, and monitoring staff for the EMT department. My main responsibilities involved identifying needs and resources for contents, receiving feedback and taking action from the feedback, monitoring and implementing the action, as well as identifying strengths and weaknesses in each task and improving the quality of the work.”

In conclusion, all successes, failures and heartaches are worth it. Life is a gift and we only live once (no one lives forever) and what matters most is to never forget to be grateful. So, enjoy life while it lasts.

I am a paraplegic due to a spinal cord -T8 injury figured in a motor-vehicular accident.

Helen Wang
Client Support Executive
Orthopedically Impaired

“I live in Turpan which is located in the Northwestern part of China. Before Genashtim, I worked as an English tutor for primary school pupils at home. I spent 3 to 4 hours at work during weekdays, and about 5 to 6 hours during weekends. I enjoyed my previous job, and I loved teaching those children. But I was actually looking for a more challenging and exciting job, so I decided to work for Genashtim. I believe that Genashtim will give me more opportunities to show my abilities and improve my English communication skills.

Working for Genashtim means a lot to me. Genashtim has given me more opportunities to improve my English communication skills; at the same time, I am also able to help people who need to learn and improve their Chinese communication skills. For me, Genashtim is the best company that I have ever worked for.”

Role in the business

Helen is currently working as a language coach for Genashtim’s Mandarin eSpeak program She also assists the Mandarin eSpeak QA Team, EPiC Online QA Team, and the Content Development Department.

Background

Helen has an innate serious spinal disease, which is called “Spina Bifida.” This disease prevents her from walking like a normal person because her spine is bent like the structure of a shrimp.

Virneshan Raman
Instructional Designer
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim in September 2016

“After graduating with a Diploma in Information Technology, I wanted to pursue a degree. Unfortunately, I could not find a suitable college because I am a wheelchair user. So, I decided to look for a job and applied for several jobs. I attended a few interviews, but none of the potential jobs suited me. During my leisure time, I built my skills in IT around web design and graphic design. I also learnt how to troubleshoot and repair a computer.

A few months passed and I became concerned about my future so I started to search for home-based jobs. That was how I found Genashtim. Genashtim for me was a breath of fresh air, coming just at the right time. Working with Genashtim has given me a sense of focus and allowed me to keep faith in myself and my abilities, despite my disability. I felt this was the right place for me and did not hesitate to give it a try. It was a great opportunity to show my skills. It has been a few months into the job, and I feel very comfortable here.”

Role in the business

I previously worked as a Remote PC Technician for Abled Online, a division of Genashtim Innovative Learning. My tasks included providing technical support for Abled Online clients and staff. I then moved to the Production Department as one of their Instructional Design Executives. My tasks include researching and converting contents into LMS supported formats, creating engaging learning activities and compelling course content for our clients and internal needs, developing exercises and activities that enhance the learning experience of clients, providing suggestions and assisting in improving the existing content materials, and assisting in identifying clients’ training needs.

Background

Virneshan was diagnosed with myelomeningocele with tethered cord at lumbosacral region since birth. At the age of 5 months, he underwent surgery to repair the myelomeningocele, having a normal gross motor development until age 10 when he started having left foot drop. In 2003, therefore, he underwent surgery for tethered cord release. In 2006, he started having gradual weakness of the right lower limb also. A second surgery for tethered cord was done. Again, in 2009, he started having back pain and gradual worsening of weakness in the lower limbs and underwent a third surgery for release of tethered cord. After this surgery, he totally lost his walking ability and started using a wheelchair.

Gunavathy Muthu
Accounting Manager
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on 16 February 2014

“I am Gunavathy or Gee as my friends call me. I am from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. I have had polio since I was 8 months old but that has not stopped me from being ambitious like any other abled person.

When I was young, I attended normal schools and I finished college among very much abled people. Even though it was tough competing with them, I was determined to prove to everyone that being a physically challenged person does not make me less abled than them in any way.

My family were too protective towards me because of my condition (I limp and wear special shoes because my right leg is an inch shorter than the other and I cannot use my right hand at all. Moreover, I am prone to falling) and they became my main obstacle when I started looking for jobs. But my eldest sister was and still is very supportive of whatever I do and with her help, I moved out to find jobs.

Finding jobs was not easy those days for a physically challenged person and from the employers’ point of view, I am not capable of working with one hand. So, there came my second obstacle, but this made me more determined to find a job. And I did, with the help of an employment agency. I joined as a General Clerk in a small Indian company with a meagre salary and from there onwards, I gained experience and moved on to other bigger, well-established companies. Even though I did not get a job based on my qualification, I grabbed whatever job that was offered to me to gain experience. I have worked as a receptionist, accounts clerk, customer service, export coordinator, secretary, accounts assistant, and HR assistant. At one point, I even managed the whole department in the absence of my superior and my last held job was as an administrative executive. I am proud to say my appraisal was as equal as an abled person’s appraisal and I was lucky to have had very nice bosses.

Then came news that almost shattered my freedom and independence. In 2008 I was diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome, a disease only 1 in 100 polio victims are diagnosed with. A disease affecting the muscles and nerves and can make a person bedridden and immobile. I was depressed at first but pulled myself together and consoled myself. I told myself there are people affected by even harder circumstances in this world compared to me. I left my job because I was having difficulty climbing the staircase, waking up in the mornings and I also started to become forgetful. But now I am much better with the help of Varma massage and Siddha medicines.

Since then, after I left my job, I was looking for home-based jobs but unfortunately, none were reliable, and some required a small deposit which made me quite reluctant to join them.

Finally, I got to know about Genashtim through another physically challenged person. I applied for a part-time job in the Administrative Department but was offered a permanent post as an accountant at Genashtim and a substitute coach for EPIC Online. As I lost touch with accounting for several years, I found it a bit difficult upon starting over. At one point, I almost gave up but with Thomas’ encouragement and guidance, I continued and now I can say I can handle it quite well.

At Genashtim, everything is done online and in the comfort of our own homes without having to worry about transport or beating the traffic and arriving punctually to work. Everything is conducted through emails and Skype as well as Google Hangouts. We have Management Meetings through Skype or GoToMeeting, and these meetings are attended by staff from all around the world and most of us are physically challenged. Just imagine having colleagues worldwide talking and seeing each other in real time from the comfort of their homes! I would say that’s really amazing!

Genashtim employs us not because we are physically challenged but because they believe that we have the capabilities just like any other abled person in terms of knowledge, skills and performance. I know that physically challenged people can do anything they want as long as they believe in themselves and have the determination and the ‘never give up attitude’. As Thomas has pointed out to me several times, “Genashtim is not a charitable organization”, and definitely not a place for lazy or incompetent people. So, here at Genashtim, we work with the same terms and conditions as any abled employee. We get penalized for our mistakes just like everyone else and this makes us more determined to improve ourselves.

I am proud to be a part of the Genashtim family as it is not easy finding jobs for the physically challenged and Genashtim has given me the opportunity to be independent and happy once again.

For me, ‘We are how we live our life, so make the most of it and make use of the opportunity given to the fullest’.

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.

Jennelyn Barizo
Web Administrator
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on February 2, 2015

“My life before Genashtim was quite boring. I just sat and watched TV all day, chat with friends on Facebook. It was like I got glued to the TV and in my cell phone. Genashtim means a lot to me. Actually, it’s my first job. I’m so blessed Genashtim gave me this opportunity; to be able to use and enhance my knowledge and skills, work at the comfort of my home and be able to provide for my needs.”

Role in the business

Jennelyn is an assistant web developer for Production Team, a division of Genashtim Innovative Learning. Her tasks includes Creating, editing, manage and maintain websites.

Background

Jennelyn is orthopedically handicapped. She lost her left leg during an accident that happened way back in 1997. In 2014, she was diagnosed with cancer, and had to amputate one more leg – this time it’s her right leg.

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

Karl Tangliben
Client Support Executive
Visually-impaired

Joined Genashtim on November 7, 2016

“My blindness gave me the most challenging part of life and that is on finding employment. I was told countless of times by different employers that they couldn’t hire me because of my disability. Of course, that didn’t stop me from finding a job.”

“I heard about Genashtim through my PWD friends, and I tried my luck in applying. Genashtim is really great, they hire people because of their abilities, and does not consider the disabilities. This is the place where I can just work normally, without thinking people might underestimate my capabilities because of my physical limitation. Since I started working for Genashtim I have learned so many things, which makes me certain that I will continually learn and grow in this company.”

Role in the business

I function as to monitor the leads for eCornell as assigned. I need to follow up and high conversion rate;

– If customer wishes to enrol for the course, have to provide the necessary help in enrolment;

– Helping the customer until finally registering in the course and invoice sent to customer for payment;

– Understanding eCornell website and all other related tasks;

– Acting as Permanent Staff/Coach for EPiC Online according to Company policy on Permanent

Background

Karl is totally blind since birth due to an eye disease called Retinitis Pigmentosa.

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.

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.

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.

Mariecell Fornis – Esguerra
HR Generalist
Visually Impaired
Joined Genashtim on October 4, 2010

“Before Genashtim, I was a part-time transcriptionist for an NGO. My career with them was not healthy especially when it came to compensation, because there were delays of sometimes 2 or 3 months before I got paid. The work is erratic, and often, I have nothing to do.

Genashtim gave my career a total twist. Not only I can now buy things that I want, I can also help with the bills at home. I now have confidence in myself. I am proud of myself because despite my situation, I can still earn just like other people. Genashtim not only helped me but it also made my family and friends realize that a PWD can also be productive and have a career.

I feel so blessed with my job now. It’s an answered prayer from God, and like a dream come true. I love my work and my work loves me. My aspiration is to give my best and do well, so that I can stay long with Genashtim. Genashtim is different – they employ PWD not because they empathize or sympathize with us but because they believe in our knowledge, skill and capabilities. And they treat us just like any employee. It is amazing to be able to work from home.”

Role in the business

Mariecell works as Secretary for Mr. Thomas Ng. Her tasks include arranging flight and hotel bookings for Thomas and his family, maintain summary of his flight schedules, arranging restaurant and other reservations, conduct phone call follow-ups, send email blasts, and perform other administrative tasks for the company.

Recently she was promoted as the HR Manager for the Company while providing training to her reliever in the Secretarial department.

Background

Mariecell became blind when she was on her last year in college, prior to her graduation in 2002. Going home, they came upon a construction site without a warning device or sign, her father lost control of the car and they crashed. She has also undergone reconstructive surgeries on her jaws brought by the accident. While recuperating, she has learned to use Braille and has trained to use computers for visually-impaired. Mariecell has become a part-time transcriptionist for ATRIEV (Adaptive Technology for Rehabilitation, Integration, and Empowerment of the Visually Impaired)