FedEx Express Spotlights Contributions of Employees with Disabilities
A diverse and inclusive workplace is one that makes all employees, regardless of who they are or how they contribute to the organization, feel equally involved in and supported in all areas of the workplace. It enables equal opportunities for everyone to succeed, learn, and advance. True inclusion welcomes and supports people with all kinds of differences.
Integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the company culture can be a challenge for some organizations. FedEx prides itself in its People-first philosophy and has always recognized the value of a workforce that is as diverse as the world it serves.
DEI at work
Clai Mendiola, Senior Human Resources Specialist at FedEx Express Philippines, has been in the industry for more than 16 years and has spent the last five with a disability. Clai had an unfortunate accident that impacted her ability to walk. Despite her ordeal, it was the support of her FedEx colleagues that gave Clai the strength and willpower to go back to work after the accident.
“During this turbulent period, I remained positive because everybody was helpful and encouraging. I never felt that I was discriminated against,” Clai said.
Clai continues to advance in her career and contributes positively to the company. She leads human resource projects and has been recognized by FedEx with employee awards that reward her hard work.
Joseph Aguinaldo, Operations Manager at FedEx Express Philippines, took many years to openly talk about his auto-immune and blood disorder, which sometimes impairs his ability to work.
He emphasized that having a strong support group that empowers you is a vital factor in embracing your situation. “I have friends, loved ones, and colleagues who have assured me that we can face these challenges together,” said Joseph.
As an active member of the DEI community at FedEx, Joseph extends the same support that he has received to others. He has been instrumental in successfully recruiting individuals with disabilities to join the company.
The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) recognized the exemplary work of Clai and Joseph with the Husay Award. FedEx also received the Disability Inclusive Workplace Award, the first of its kind ever awarded by the NCDA. This award is given to companies with effective inclusivity programs.
“We are extremely pleased to see what we have achieved so far, but we know that we must continue to ensure that our commitment to DEI is at the forefront of our business strategy. Our people-centric culture not only unites us as we serve our customers across the country, it also fuels our commitment to better support local businesses and our employees,” said Maribeth Espinosa, Managing Director, FedEx Express Philippines.
One of the many ways FedEx champions inclusivity in the workplace is by ensuring a safe and nurturing work environment for everyone. The company’s efforts have resulted in the receiving of accolades from HR Excellence Awards Philippines and HR Asia Awards in 2022.
