September 10th, 2024
Individuals with Autism Join the Workforce Through the Collaboration Between Tohum Autism Foundation and Arvato Logistics
Tohum Autism Foundation and Arvato Logistics signed a cooperation protocol today to launch a new project aimed at integrating individuals with autism into the workforce. Through this initiative, individuals with autism will be employed within Arvato Logistics.
The project aims to increase the participation of individuals with autism in professional life and ensure their success in the workplace. Arvato Logistics will implement the “Supported Employment Model”, which facilitates the adaptation process and supports the integration of individuals with autism into the workforce. With this joint effort, Tohum Autism Foundation and Arvato Logistics not only aim to promote employment opportunities for individuals with autism but also to raise public awareness and contribute to building a more inclusive business environment.
According to data from the Turkish Employment Agency (İŞKUR) for the period January–July 2024, 23,192 individuals with disabilities were placed in employment. Among the 91 individuals with autism registered with İŞKUR, 27 are currently employed while 64 are still seeking jobs. Considering that there are an estimated 1.5 million individuals with autism over the age of 18 in Türkiye, the potential for contributing to the national workforce is significant.
Since 2010, the Tohum Autism Foundation has been actively working to promote the employment of individuals with autism. In March 2024, these efforts were consolidated under the Tohum Autism Foundation Career Center for Individuals with Autism, with the goal of managing and expanding employment processes more effectively.
Steps Toward Inclusion with Arvato Logistics
As part of the new project with Arvato Logistics, the Foundation’s Career Center for Individuals with Autism began by conducting a comprehensive job analysis within the company. A job coach who will work within the company will undergo two months of extensive training to ensure appropriate workplace accommodations and a smooth adaptation process for individuals with autism.
Following the training period, Tohum Autism Foundation will provide on-site consultancy services for one year to support workplace adjustments and ease the transition for individuals with autism. The company’s employees will also receive autism awareness training. These efforts aim to create a productive and inclusive working environment where individuals with autism can feel comfortable and thrive.
More Opportunities for Individuals with Autism
Aylin Sezgin, Chair of Tohum Autism Foundation, emphasized the importance of the initiative:
“This partnership with Arvato Logistics is a significant step toward integrating individuals with autism into business and social life after completing their education. With more projects like this, more individuals with autism will have the opportunity to participate in the workforce and become independent adults.”
Umur Özkal, General Manager of Arvato Logistics, also shared his thoughts:
“Following the two-month training period for our in-house job coach, we aim to employ a total of four individuals with autism. Within the framework of our diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, we are proud to offer this opportunity and hope to set an example for both our industry and companies in other sectors. We believe that the inclusion of individuals with autism in the workforce will bring value not only to employers but also to the overall work environment.”
