In an inspiring move towards creating more inclusive workplaces, the Inclusive Future Advocates (IFA) team, led by Program Manager Oluwaseyi Moses, visited the head office of LOMO Coffee & Restaurant for a pivotal advocacy meeting. The meeting aimed to address the pressing need for workplace accessibility and inclusive service delivery in the hospitality industry, with the objective of empowering businesses to create truly inclusive environments for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
The meeting saw robust discussions centered around innovative solutions, including the adoption of assistive technologies, updates to workplace policies, and inclusive hiring practices. As businesses and institutions continue to strive towards greater inclusivity, the IFA team’s goal is to equip the hospitality sector with the necessary knowledge and tools to make accessibility a standard practice across all workspaces. This effort, they believe, will not only ensure compliance with accessibility standards but also foster an equitable environment that benefits both employees and customers with disabilities.
Fostering an Accessible and Inclusive Workplace Culture
Program Manager Oluwaseyi Moses took center stage during the discussions, emphasizing the need for regular training programs and investments in assistive technology as the cornerstone of an accessible environment for PWDs. “It’s not enough to put ramps at the door or have braille menus. Businesses need to actively engage in creating a culture of accessibility—both in the digital and physical sense. This means updating workplace policies regularly, offering training to staff, and investing in technologies that make workspaces and services more accessible,” said Moses.
He further explained that inclusive hiring practices are a vital part of this culture shift. By encouraging businesses to hire more PWDs, organizations not only diversify their workforce but also bring fresh perspectives that can drive innovation and customer satisfaction. This, in turn, translates to stronger community engagement and better service delivery.
A Commitment to Addressing Accessibility Challenges
In response to the IFA team’s advocacy, LOMO Coffee & Restaurant’s HR and Admin Manager, Mr. Bowsan Kuzayet, acknowledged the importance of the discussions, expressing his commitment to advancing the cause of workplace accessibility. “We realize there are still significant gaps when it comes to addressing both digital and physical accessibility. Today’s discussions have been enlightening, and we are committed to exploring ways to support this critical cause,” Kuzayet remarked.
He highlighted some of the challenges businesses like LOMO face in making their services and work environments fully accessible, including the cost of implementing assistive technologies and ensuring compliance with evolving accessibility standards. However, Kuzayet reiterated LOMO’s dedication to finding sustainable solutions, particularly through policy updates and partnerships with organizations like IFA.
“We understand that creating an inclusive environment is not just a one-time effort; it’s an ongoing process. We must regularly review our policies and practices to ensure we are moving forward,” Kuzayet added. He also expressed interest in expanding digital literacy programs for employees, particularly in understanding how assistive technologies can be integrated into daily operations.
The Role of the ‘Advancing Digital Literacy Project’
This initiative is part of IFA’s broader efforts to promote accessibility and inclusivity in workplaces across different sectors, made possible through their ‘Advancing Digital Literacy Project,’ supported by the Disability Rights Fund (DRF). The project focuses on bridging the accessibility gap in the digital landscape, equipping businesses and individuals with the tools and knowledge to make workplaces and services more accessible for PWDs.
According to IFA, the project’s goal is to ensure that PWDs can not only participate in the workforce but also thrive in environments that cater to their needs. “Through this project, we aim to empower not just individuals with disabilities, but also businesses and organizations, enabling them to fully realize the potential of an inclusive workplace,” said Moses.
Moving Towards Inclusive Accessibility in the Hospitality Sector
The hospitality industry, known for its customer-centric services, is beginning to recognize the value of inclusivity not only as a legal obligation but as an opportunity to enhance customer satisfaction and employee engagement. By making their spaces accessible, businesses can tap into a broader customer base and foster loyalty among PWDs, who often face significant challenges when navigating public spaces.
The IFA team believes that by implementing inclusive service delivery models, businesses like LOMO Coffee & Restaurant can set the standard for others in the industry. Their advocacy efforts are focused on ensuring that accessibility becomes a fundamental aspect of business operations, rather than an afterthought.
As the meeting concluded, both parties expressed optimism about the future of accessibility in the hospitality sector. LOMO’s management pledged to begin working on immediate steps to address the accessibility gaps identified during the meeting, including staff training on inclusive practices, improving the physical layout of their facilities, and exploring digital solutions that support assistive technologies.
The IFA team will continue to work closely with LOMO Coffee & Restaurant and other businesses, providing guidance on implementing sustainable, long-term solutions that promote accessibility and inclusivity in the workplace.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The advocacy meeting at LOMO Coffee & Restaurant marks a significant step forward in IFA’s mission to advance inclusive work environments for PWDs. With more businesses recognizing the importance of accessibility, the path toward a more inclusive society is becoming clearer. As Moses aptly summarized, “We want to build a world where accessibility is not an option, but a standard. Every person, regardless of ability, deserves to work and live in spaces that are welcoming and accommodating.”
As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, partnerships like the one between IFA and LOMO Coffee & Restaurant will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping a future where inclusivity is at the heart of every workplace, ensuring equal opportunities and improved quality of life for all.
