Sodexo Recognized as a Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion for 5 Consecution Years, highlighting a safe and inclusive culture.
Sodexo, a local unit of the France-based global leader in integrated food services and facilities management that improve the quality of life, has once again been recognized as a Top Employer for Disability Inclusion, achieving a score of 100 on the 2024 Disability Quality Index for the fifth consecutive year, highlighting its commitment to fostering a culture that values people with disabilities and enables them to reach their full potential. Sodexo has participated in this initiative for 10 years, collaborating with the Disability and American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD).
"Supporting and empowering employees with disabilities is at the heart of our organizational strategy, aligning with Sodexo’s global vision emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels safe, accepted, and able to thrive. We actively encourage employees with disabilities to self-identify without fear of judgment or discrimination, ensuring they enjoy meaningful collaboration with colleagues daily. Sodexo welcomes individuals with disabilities into our family, focusing on their unique skills and potential. We also provide tailored training to enhance their capabilities, enabling them to perform at their best across various sites. Our unwavering goal is to be an organization that champions the value of every individual while contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive future."
"At this operation site, we have three employees with disabilities working as permanent staff at 'Be Restaurant.' They have demonstrated their skills and potential through hard work and a strong commitment to learning and growing with the organization. We are proud to support them in having careers and income like others. To ensure their tasks proceed without disruptions while providing a positive experience for our customers, we have organized training to develop their skills, especially in safety. We have also provided facilities such as assistive equipment, touchless cleaning solutions, dishwashers, ramps for mobility, and protective gloves. These employees with disabilities receive the same benefits as regular employees. I encourage organizations to consider hiring people with disabilities to allow them to prove their potential, as this helps create long-term equality in Thai society."
Pisont Sathornkij, Service Attendant of Sodexo Thailand or "Pee Ood," has worked with Sodexo for over 17 years. He currently works in the services department, overseeing the preparation of items for inpatient departments, such as preparing seasonings and arranging food trays. Although Pee Ood has muscle weakness on the left side, which causes slower movement, this condition is not congenital. Fortunately, he has prior experience as a steward and server, which has equipped him with the skills and expertise to perform his duties efficiently.
Pee Ood shared that he never saw himself as a disabled person. From the beginning, he disclosed his physical condition to his supervisor and colleagues, believing that his self-identify would foster mutual understanding. The outcome has been warm acceptance, pressure-free, and excellent support from his colleagues and the company. Sodexo also places great importance on employee well-being, providing training and necessary equipment, and designing workspaces suitable for physical conditions to prevent accidents and ensure comfort during work.
"I am pleased now, never bored because I have good colleagues, a supportive supervisor, and, most importantly, the company's benefits. This makes me want to work with Sodexo for the rest of my life."
Chariya Nenthong, or "Nong Jeed," has worked as a dishwasher with Sodexo for over 5 years. Although she has a hearing impairment in her right ear, she shared with gratitude that she is fortunate to work in an environment filled with understanding and support from her manager and colleagues.
"When problems arise, my manager and friends have never abandoned me. They always help resolve issues; whenever I don’t understand something, I can consult and ask for advice. Sometimes, hearing from just one ear can lead to misunderstandings, but my friends are always ready to explain and communicate to ensure smooth work operations.
"I am delighted to be working here. I feel no pressure and want to continue working here for a long time. However, if there is an opportunity to learn more or gain more experience in the future, I am ready to grow in my career alongside Sodexo."
The dedication and happiness in working of both "Pee Ood" and "Nong Jeed" are beautiful examples of employees who are determined and grateful for the opportunities offered by an organization that values diversity and equality. Their advice to people with disabilities is to be brave in revealing their true selves to their organizations and colleagues, which can help create a happy and warm atmosphere in the workplace.