Genashtim | Empowering People, Enabling Business

Christian Del Rosario

DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

Christian is a very accomplished HR practitioner with 20 years of professional experience gained from several multinational organizations, primarily on technology and outsourcing industries. His expertise are in designing and implementing HR solutions and initiatives in the areas of organization development, HR transformation, compensation design and management, learning and talent management and industrial relations. Christian received his M.S. in Industrial/ Organizational Psychology at De La Salle Unviersity in Manila.

Andrew Manassee

HEAD OF Marketing & Corp. Communications

With more than 30 years of work experience in the field of Marketing, Andrew is an ROI driven professional with an impressive track record in digital marketing, eCommerce, Marketing Communications, Retail Business and Copywriting. Prior to working at Genashtim, he has worked for multi-national companies such as Hill-Rom, Sonera Zed, Ericsson and Yamaha.

As Marketing and Corporate Communications Manager, Andrew leads the Marketing Team, Creative Section and Corporate Communications Department. He holds a Diploma in Business Studies from the Malaysian Institute of Management and a BA (Hons) in Marketing from the Charles Sturt University, New South Whales, Australia.

Andrew strongly believes in the importance of level-headedness. He maintains a rational and practical mind, specifically in evaluating both the opportunities and risks and in coming up with innovative solutions to challenges.

Genashtim Wins YPO’s Forum in Business Award

YPO-WPO Global Impact: Thomas Ng

Ee Beng Tan

ESG Services Manager

Tan Ee Beng heads the ESG Services in Genashtim and he manages various ESG initiatives and projects with our partners and clients. Since 2020, he has been involved in promoting and advocating the B Corp movement in Singapore and Malaysia and which has now extended to the rest of Southeast Asia.

Despite his partial blindness, Ee Beng makes the most of any opportunity that comes his way. Based in Malaysia, Ee Beng first obtained a diploma in Mass Communication with a major in Public Relations and later pursued a Bachelor of Public Relations (Honours) degree from the Tunku Abdul Rahman University College in Kuala Lumpur. He interned at the International Association for Human Values (IAHV) and started work as a Project Coordinator for Dialogue in the Dark.

Adept in Microsoft Office, Office 365, and Google Drive, Ee Beng is also a certified NVDA screen reader and speaks Malay and English fluently.

Ee Beng Tan
ESG Manager

Tan Ee Beng is from the Malaysian city of Puchong in the state of Selangor. Ee Beng, despite his partial blindness, 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 (Honours) degree from Tunku Abdul Rahman University College in Kuala Lumpur. Ee Beng interned at the International Association for Human Values (IAHV) and worked as a Project Coordinator for Dialogue in the Dark. Ee Beng is 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!

Eric John Sulit
Web Developer
Mild Cerebral Palsy
Joined Genashtim on March 01, 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 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.

In 2018 to 2019 I started to seek a job 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. The Company has inspired confidence in me 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 hopeless people through an online presence that can withstand many natural disasters and pandemics. I enjoy my career here and am excited about working in a team that imparts many useful skills to me.

Role in the business

I joined Genashtim on March 1, 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 conditioned increased with age and I was finally taken to the hospital and diagnosed with mild cerebral palsy.

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

“Computers are my passion. I was exposed to computers from an early age because I was house bound. 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 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 with the aim of to making 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… that was before I joined Genashtim. Now, im working as 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 date, I am still on the process of learning many new things for my improvement 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 the disability.”

Role in the business

Duy programs and customize websites system for an internal and external client. 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 4 he had a fever for three days, as a result of this he was unable to walk for a period of 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 in time he could not walk or stand without support and was thus wheelchair bound. His hands were too weak to make use of a manual wheelchair. In 2010, after numerous trips to hospitals, he was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type III, an incurable disease. His health will continue to decline as told by his doctors.

Nancy Ong
Section Manager, Language
Senior Citizen

Meet Nancy, a senior citizen living a meaningful life!

Nancy, English department manager at Genashtim, contributes her experiences and expertise to help a social enterprise. Not only that, she lives a fulfilling retired life and age did not limit her to continue contributing to society.

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

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

“I am a self-confessed introvert but 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 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 why 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 to have. However, my faith has taught me that everything happens for a reason. I will be great and not just have an ordinary ‘get by’ life.”

Role in the business

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

Background

At the age of four Jett contracted polio. Unfortunately it affected both set of 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 wheel-chair 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 a dream become a reality, it has also given him a sense of fulfillment with the ability to help his family. He enjoys the working environment and the opportunity to work with and learn from colleagues.

Macleen Nabong
Learning D Manager
Orthopedically Impaired
Joined Genashtim on June 1, 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 the higher officials in the agency.

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 with the corporate industry.

Only a few months after I started working with 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 as IT Specialist for Abled Online, a division of Genashtim Innovative Learning. His tasks include supervision of client and company’s staff technical support 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 elbow below). Despite this, he graduated with a 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 4 kids.

Leigh McIntyre
Verification Analyst
Polio Survivor
Joined Genashtim on June 1, 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 sector. 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 on 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 is now the Section Manager for the eLearning programs in Genashtim.

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 awarded the prize for “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 Special Education children, 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.

Miguel Andre de Castro
Abled Online QA Lead/Supervisor
Bipolar/ADHD
Joined Genashtim on March 6, 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 the problems related to the computer. The main focus is to access 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 his Bipolar and ADHD came from birth but due to stressors and lack of action remedying his mental issue from he was a child, 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 unseen, 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.

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

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

Before Genashtim I used to work as a web content writer/researcher for a private concessionaire. 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, fixed obligations such as rental fee and billings for my electricity and internet connection.

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

Role in the business

Delia is in-charge of monitoring all sessions done everyday. She ensures that the coaches are online before their scheduled sessions, 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 the age of 4 months old but her disability did not hinder her to pursue her aspiration to go to school and lived a normal life. She became a working student while in college, holding different positions in the first cooperative of PWDs registered in the country. She has started to live independently.

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

“I was born with a congenital deformity in both legs and thus orthopedically-impaired since birth. I never had the opportunity 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 is very sporadic and barely sufficient to meet all of our family’s expenses not even 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 PWD’s. Most companies avoid hiring PWD’s due to the assumption that there are additional costs incurred to accommodate PWD’s in the workplace. Genashtim’s innovation in developing a home-based employment system has eliminated the barriers faced by PWD’s wanting to be employed, for example; are the challenges faced by PWD’s while commuting to and fro, special needs at the workplace and more. Genashtim views its PWD employees as assets and believes in their inherent capability they also provide programs to enhance their employees current skills set.

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 congenital deformity of the lower limbs. He was able to walk with a limp until age 3. His parents were very 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 on he ventured into the fray of Computer Programming at Adtech Computer School which has also led to his employment as a teacher at the school. Apart from this he also does freelance web design.

Amalina Hares
Section Manager. Learning Support Services
Visually Impaired (Stargardt Disease)
Joined Genashtim on May 11, 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 given me an opportunity 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 am able to virtually connect and build friendships with people from different 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 age 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
HR Operations Specialist
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on February 8, 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 has 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 I am still hoping I can 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 in employing deserving PWD. 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 as acting HR Supervisor and later as HR Officer. She recruits staff worldwide to fill in positions for all teams in the company. She assists the HR Manager on various matters and is also assisting 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 remains positive and continued aspiring for a new career. Prior to joining Genashtim Innovative Learning, she was a part-time web content writer.

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

“My life before Genashtim has been quite monotonous especially when I no longer have to do mental exercise after finishing my second course. Genashtim gave my being a broader perspective on the things that I never thought I am capable of accomplishing, it\’s like a “wind beneath my wings” scenario. I admit that I sometimes face tasks that require so much patience and dedication but I do not regard these tasks as hindrances, rather, I see these as my loopholes to finding out the areas in my life that I very well know need some initiating to be fully functional. Genashtim has been my balance beam since I joined. I can say that I am well-rounded now. My career started out as a part of the content team and I still am a part of it. I perfectly blend in, may it be on colleague camaraderie or as regards the tasks involved. I am with a feeling of joy and fulfillment every day of my life.”

Role in the business

Madje’s task in the content development team includes developing Content for EPiC Online. She is also Doing research for EPiC Content Development. She assists Content Development Manager in matters concerning Content Development. She reviews selected pre-assessments done with students and makes the recommendations when necessary.

Background

I am a polio victim who has withstood the physiological battle and has defied death. I got this limitation when I was barely two years old due to their neglect to have me immunized.

Virneshan Raman
Instructional Designer
Mobility-impaired
Joined Genashtim on 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 February 16, 2014

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

When I was young I attended normal schools and I finished my college among very much able people. Even though it was tough competing with them but I was determined to prove to everyone that being a physically challenged person does not make me less able 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 down often) and they became my main obstacle when I started looking for jobs. But my eldest sister was and still is very supportive in 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 in the employers’ point of view, I am not capable of working with one hand. So, there came my second obstacle and 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 and well established companies. Even though I did not get a job based on my qualification, I grabbed whatever job that was offered to me as to gain experience. I have worked as a Receptionist, Accounts Clerk, Customer Service, Export Coordinator, Secretary, Accounts Assistant, HR Assistant and at one point 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 able person’s appraisal and I was lucky to have had very nice bosses.

Then came a news that almost shattered my freedom and independence, in 2008 I was diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome, a disease only 1 in a 100 polio victims are diagnosed with. A disease affecting the muscles and nerves and can make a person bedridden without any movement. I was depressed at first but pulled myself together and consoled myself that there are worst affected people in this world compared to me. I left my job because I was having difficulty climbing staircase and waking up in the mornings as well as forgetfulness. But now I am much better with the help of Varma massage and Siddha medicines.

Since the time I left my job up till a months ago, I was looking for home base jobs but unfortunately there was none reliable and all the online home base jobs requires 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 in touch with accounting for quite a number of years I was finding it difficult to start off doing accounts and at one point I almost gave up, but with Thomas’s encouragement and guidance I continued and now I can say I am able to handle it quite well.

At Genashtim, everything is done online and at 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 it consists of staffs all around the world and most of us are physically challenged staffs. Just imagine staffs worldwide talking and seeing each other in the comfort of their homes at the same time! 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 able person in the sense of knowledge, skills and performance. I know that a physically challenged person can do anything they want as long as they have the determination and believe in themselves as well as 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 how an able employee works. We get penalised for our mistakes just like every other person and this makes us more determined to improve ourselves.

I am proud to be a part of Genashtim family as it is not easy finding jobs for the physically challenged and Genashtim has given me the opportunity for being 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’.”

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Hadirah Yusuf
Operations Assistant/Client Support Executive
Cerebral Palsy
Joined Genashtim on December 5, 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 of Malaysian Advocates for Cerebral Palsy until now. In 2016, I got married and moved to Bangi Selangor and was a job-seeker for 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 helps me to be more productive due to limited transportation movement which saves my energy 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 team members. In addition to learning how to fix a variety of problems, I also learn 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 his or her life.

Helen Wang
Client Support Executive
Orthopedically Impaired

“I live in Turpan which is located in Northwest 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’ Mandarin eSpeak program, an assistant of Mandarin eSpeak QA Team and Content Department, a helper of EPiC Online QA Team.

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.

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

I grew up in a small, simple and supportive family with 3 siblings. I did not experience the kindergarten environment but with the help of my parents, I went to primary and secondary schools where I was the only one with disability. I felt so nervous and not confident of myself to have a new environment as a student but with the encouragement of my parents, who are concerned about my future and career, I managed to complete until the secondary level. Then, I was advised to pursue my studies further but due to financial problems and the lack of facilities for the disabled from most colleges and universities, I decided to find a job which is suitable for me as PWD and a wheelchair-bound person. I went from one job to another with a lot of inconveniences in commuting, workplace challenges plus the people around me.

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. I resigned from my work that time so I can give it a try with Genashtim where I don’t have to travel and can be independent.

As a person from the PWD group, it was not easy to find a job out there. Most of the employers simply don’t want to hire PWDs saying that they are difficult to handle, have mobility issues, lack capabilities and there are no provisions for disability facilities. Despite the number of years of my experience in that 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 come from all types of disabilities. 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 am able to 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, potentials and talents. They allow their PWD staff to share their skills and talents to their team members and contribute to the success of the company. Genashtim has also helped me to be financially stable because I am able to earn money to support my family and buy the things I need and want.

I am very grateful for the trust, the opportunity to show my skills and be a part of Genashtim’s team as an Executive Assistant to the CEO.

Susheela Sabaratnam

HR Director

Susheela’s career in Human Resources is packed with 25 years of experience in a wide range of expertise in talent management, learning and development, HR metrics and legal and regulatory. Susheela holds a Master of Business Administration from LaTrobe University and a Diploma in Human Resource Management from the University of Newcastle.

Prior to joining Genashtim, she has worked in various organisations from where she gained her experience as an HR practitioner.
She is also an active social volunteer and consultant for international NGOs.

Interests: Baking and nutrition, badminton.

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 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.

Genashtim is represented on the board of the ASEAN Responsible and Inclusive Alliance, helping with membership and training, as well as managing their website.

10% of Genashtim’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.

Genashtim has been a member of The Singapore Centre for Social Enterprise since 2019. We also have a partnership with raiSE to provide services.

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)

Dr. Susan D’Aloia

Learning Director

A New Yorker with Italian heritage, Dr. D’Aloia has lived and worked around the world for more than 20 years. Apart from various locations in the USA, her teaching and learning design (fully online, blended, traditional), research, consultancy, and volunteering work has also taken her to Yugoslavia, Zimbabwe, Nicaragua, Haiti, Vietnam and Singapore. Prior to joining Genashtim Dr. D’Aloia was Client Success Manager: Asia for Blackboard. She was also an Associate Professor at the Vietnamese American Training College, and Adjunct Professor at City University of New York.

Tripta Singh

Project Manager/Trainer

With an MSc (Merit) from the London School of Economics, and a BSc (Honours) from University of Warwick, Tripta started her career with McKinsey & Company in London.

Upon her return to Singapore, she was hired as Head of Content Development at with Knowledge Platform, an education technology company with a presence in over 20 countries.

Tripta has diverse facilitation, training and business experience in Asia. This includes the design, development and implementation of a corporate training program which was rolled out to 3,000+ staff of the CAS Group in Indonesia and spearheading the design production of an innovative blended-learning solution to improve English language comprehension in China. This was rolled out to 200+ schools within a year of launching.

Tripta founded Learnosophy in 2017. Learnosophy is an education and training business which uses a technology-driven approach to develop the skills, creativity and innovation of learners, with an emphasis on changing learner needs in a rapidly changing world. Till date, Learnosophy has impacted 6,000+ university students and young professionals through interactive online training programs.

Since 2018, Tripta has been associated with Genashtim as a Trainer for our programs with the Singapore Business Federation, and as a Project Manager for our eLearning projects.

Likes: inventing recipes, travelling, getting lost in books, problem-solving

Raj Selvaraj

Process/QA Manager

As Operations Manager, Raj leads the Monitoring team and Quality Assurance team for our language programs EPiC Online and Mandarin eSpeak. He also heads our Content Development Department.

Raj has an engineering background and lives in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He has been with Genashtim since 2011.

Likes: technology, home interior designing, collecting figurines & model toys.