Shapoorji Pallonji promotes inclusion of a diverse workforce with sports

The Shapoorji Pallonji Group integrated corporate social responsibility and employee engagement to break preconceived ideas about the capabilities of the differently abled, with the ‘Breaking Barriers Olympics’.

The daylong event with Cricket, Badminton and Carrom competitions had a special focus on integrating the organization’s differently abled workforce from EuroAble into all sports and games. EuroAble is the official call centre for the Group company Eureka Forbes and it is run by 160 differently abled individuals.

The aim of the programme was to celebrate diversity and inclusivity. Participants included over 200 Shapoorji Pallonji employees and their families, and over 70 employees of EuroAble.

“Differently abled people are capable of being independent and integrating with society at large. And we aim to emphasize this fact among our communities, beginning with our employees and their families, by encouraging them to socialize on team building platforms,” said Zarine Commissariat, Head – CSR, Shapoorji Pallonji Group, adding that this is a purpose-driven activity to sensitize employees about the group’s CSR activities. “We are committed to empowering communities by bringing inequality and providing all with an equal chance to growth and development.”

The ‘Breaking Barriers Olympics’ had 8 cricket teams competing against each other, 32 doubles teams for Badminton and 32 doubles teams for Carrom. All teams celebrated a mix of abled and differently abled employees working together. The ‘Kids Corner’ was engaging with storytelling, art, music and face painting sessions conducted by EuroAble team members. The day ended with an awards ceremony, gaining many friendships, recognition, and cheers for the participants.