I take pride in gradually overcoming my challenges. Initially, I collaborated with my supervisors and the HR department, proposing ways to continue working efficiently. Now, I can perform tasks at the same speed as my colleagues. In 2010, I was able to introduce a guide dog. This was possible thanks to the understanding and support of the company and my colleagues, for which I am truly grateful.
I feel that Danone Japan is a workplace where my personality is respected as an individual. You can say what you want to say without hesitation. You know the individual is respected in a place where you are able to express your thoughts and ideas. Rather than following orders from the top-down, we are responsible for taking the initiative. I feel that this is the culture of Danone that has been built on trust.
My growth theme is 'not using my handicap as an excuse.' To overcome my challenges, it is important to rely on team members and HR, and to have the people at my workplace understand my strengths and weaknesses."
For example, I obtained a PC certification at a vocational training school and proposed improvements to documents using Excel skills, which helped others recognize my abilities. Since I originally worked in sales, I am good at phone communication, and by speaking on behalf of those in need, I built trust and increased my workload. This approach is applicable to everyone, regardless of disability. I feel strongly that it is important to forge your own path rather than relying solely on the company.
It is a joy to harness the knowledge I have built up over long years to be involved in encouraging younger colleagues and those striving to do their best, to lift the team and to achieve growth as an organization.
In my private life, since joining Danone, my life has stabilized, and I have been able to secure time for myself. I believe this is because Danone respects my personality as an individual.
In the future, I want to expand the possibilities for visually impaired individuals by pioneering new paths. For example, I would like to travel abroad for work, exchange opinions with colleagues, and hold workshops. Additionally, I aim to contribute to making Danone Japan an even more accommodating workplace for people with disabilities.