The grounds of the Uganda School for the Deaf in Ntinda were transformed into a vibrant hub of professional exchange last Thursday as the inaugural Talent Without Limit Career Fair brought together over 400 determined job seekers and 28 employers committed to inclusive hiring.
Organized by BrighterMonday Uganda in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, the event was held in collaboration with Light for the World, NUDIPU, and the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD).
Under the banner of the Gen-Kazi Programme, the fair focused on unlocking the vast potential of professionals with disabilities, ensuring they have a direct seat at the table with recruiters who value diverse talent.
Jeff Luboga, Head of Workforce at BrighterMonday Uganda, urged participants to step into their power. “Opportunities favor the brave,” Luboga noted, encouraging attendees to confidently showcase their expertise.
Silvester Kasozi, Country Director at Light for the World, challenged the traditional corporate perspective, emphasizing that hiring from this talent pool is a strategic business move.
“Employing people with disabilities isn’t a favor; it’s a competitive advantage,” Kasozi stated. “True inclusion isn’t about being nice, it’s about being smart enough to value talent in every form.”
The fair addressed the systemic hurdles that often keep skilled individuals on the sidelines. Naomi Akwee, the Disability Inclusion Facilitator (DIF) for Light for the World, noted that progress begins with how a company views potential.
“When you change your attitude, you can remove all the barriers,” Akwee remarked, emphasizing that an inclusive workforce starts with a shift in perspective.
Lillian Namukasa, Programme Manager at the National Secretariat for Special Interest Groups (Council for Persons with Disabilities),said “We have established ICT Hubs for persons with disabilities in the different regions,” Namukasa shared.
“Take advantage of these and enhance your skills. Access the internet for innovation, research, and development.”