An inclusive work environment for persons with disabilities
Ain is a customer service executive in Shell Malaysia who has impaired eyesight. Here she tells the story of how her managers and team have consistently supported and valued her.
I initially worked for Shell Malaysia in 2008 as a contractor in the Human Resources team, before moving on to Shell MDS as Logistic Administrator. After working alongside Shell colleagues as a contractor, I was attracted by the opportunities provided by Shell for differently abled employees. At last, in 2012 I became a full-fledged employee of Shell Malaysia, joining the Legal Team in the role of Administrative Assistant to the Head of Legal.
Ain鈥淒espite my impaired eyesight, I was able to perform well in my role. I have never let my difference be an obstacle to my career moves!鈥�
The Shell workplace has always been friendly to differently abled employees like me. Specialised IT equipment is provided to cater for different kinds of disabilities 鈥� I was offered a bigger monitor which helps me see better, and there are also special keyboards that light up to accommodate those who are partially sighted.
I was allocated a parking spot near the office entrance to optimise my safety when navigating the walkways towards the office, while considering my challenges in distance judgment. Lighting in the office facilities, especially in the restrooms, gym and common areas, was specially adjusted to the brightness level suitable for someone like me.
Recently, I had the privilege of providing valuable input to the Shell Real Estate team when they were working to enhance access for people with disabilities at One Shell Square Miri, the new upstream headquarters in Miri, Sarawak.
Ain鈥淚 have been empowered to be the best version of myself by the conducive working environment in Shell.鈥�
All my line managers have been integral to my development, both professionally and personally. They are very involved in my career development journey and are caring 鈥� enabling and supporting me to progress confidently in each of my different roles within Shell. They have always treated me on an equal footing with other team members.
My colleagues have also always been supportive and helpful, and consistently valued my work contributions. In tricky places like the stairs or where there are bumps on the ground, they will gently guide me. In the teams I work with, it鈥檚 a standard instruction to send me a pre-read before a meeting, so that I can review the magnified version of the materials in preparation.
As a result of my positive work experience in Shell, I was able to confidently share my story of overcoming my disability with the Shell Women鈥檚 Action Group on the International Day of People with Disabilities. I was also able to provide learning sessions to my colleagues on working with people with different abilities.
I am grateful to be working in Shell鈥檚 inclusive workplace, which does not discriminate against differently abled employees. I am accepted for who I am, cared for fairly, and accommodated where required.