At Godrej Fund Management (GFM), we have been making steady progress in creating opportunities for persons with disabilities in our workplace. Predominantly, we have introduced and integrated new roles within our commercial assets through the Property Management team. Through this initiative, we commit to building an inclusive workplace where all individuals can inherently succeed. 

The Stories of Varun Mehta and Ganesh Agiwale 

In FY 2024-25, we expanded our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion by welcoming two remarkable individuals to our team at Godrej Two under the Facility Management umbrella – Varun Mehta and Ganesh Agiwale. Their journey with us has been transformative, not only for them but also for the teams working alongside them. 

For both Varun and Ganesh, the hiring and onboarding processes were designed with care and attention to their subjective needs. 

Varun Mehta

Varun, who is on the autism spectrum, joined as a pantry executive through Sila Solutions Pvt. Ltd. in collaboration with Yash Charitable Trust (YCT). Before his interview, a detailed orientation was conducted with the GFM team to share an introduction to Varun, his background and his accessibility needs. We wanted to ensure that interviewers could tailor their approach and facilitate a respectful and smooth onboarding experience for him. 

Varun’s journey has been one of remarkable growth. With the guidance of Yash Charitable Trust and the support of his colleagues, Varun is flourishing in his role. 

"I am extremely happy working here," Varun says. "The people and the workplace are amazing. I’m learning professionalism, traveling independently, and taking on responsibilities. My family, friends, and relatives all appreciate my progress, and I want to continue working here for a long time." 

Varun’s family has witnessed his transformation firsthand. When we got in touch with them, they affirmed how work has instilled in him a sense of responsibility and independence. We were humbled by their acknowledgement of our efforts to provide a supportive environment that has helped him grow both personally and professionally. 

Ganesh Agiwale

Ganesh, who has partial visual impairment, joined us as a storekeeper at Sila Solutions Pvt. Ltd., in collaboration with Samarthanam Trust. His onboarding process was seamless, as his colleagues ensured to create a welcoming and supportive environment for him from the start. Ganesh was guided through his role with patience and care, and he remains well-adapted to his responsibilities with the help of his team. 

Ganesh’s experience has been equally rewarding for him. As a partially impaired individual, Ganesh faced challenges, but with the support of his team and the organisation, he quickly adapted and became a valuable member of the team. 

"The hiring process was simple, and I faced no difficulties," Ganesh recalls. "Everyone here has been supportive, guiding me patiently. I’ve learned so much, and every day brings something new." 

For Ganesh, this job has been a gateway to financial stability and personal growth. "This job has made me financially stable, and I feel proud to contribute to my family," he shares. His words are a testament to how inclusive hiring can positively impact not just the individual or their organisation, but their families as well. 

Sensitisation Workshop: A Shared Learning Experience 

Acknowledging that inclusion goes beyond hiring, we collaborated with Yash Charitable Trust (YCT) to conduct a sensitisation workshop for employees working closely with Varun and Ganesh. The session was focused on raising awareness about neurodiversity as well as visual impairment, particularly in relation to Varun’s and Ganesh’s strengths and accessibility needs respectively. This session proved to be key in fostering empathy, open communication, and allyship within our teams. It also helped introduce our new colleagues to the wider community, providing us with valuable insights into the challenges experienced by people with disabilities, and how best to work for a more supportive work environment. 

Text and Image from GFM's DEI team.