Empowering Futures Employment Event

We held our Empowering Futures employment event in partnership with the Department of Social Protection on 21 October in EY Dublin.

The day celebrated the success of our National Employment Programme, and brought together employers, partners and people with Down syndrome to focus on inclusive employment.

We heard from adults with Down syndrome about their employment journeys, inclusive leaders and experts on best hiring practices, along with an address by Minister Dara Calleary, Department of Social Protection. 

We were joined by Down Syndrome Ireland members working across a range of sectors, from hospitality and retail to sport, politics and manufacturing, who shared their experiences of employment. One of our guest speakers and interviewers was Kildare branch member Kim O’Kelly, who said, “My job means the world to me. It’s my dream job”.

Also joining us on the day were some of our current employment partners including Circle K, Revive Active, Bidvest Noonan, Blenders, DB Sports Academy, and Perigord Print. A clear message emerged throughout the day as employers stressed the importance of taking that first step toward inclusive employment saying, “Just do it!”

Aoife Gaffney, Head of Inclusive Employment & Impact Partnerships at Down Syndrome Ireland, presented on our National Employment Programme, with several members highlighting the straightforward process and excellent support they received from Aoife and her team.

You can learn more about our National Employment Programme here.