India’s leading real estate consulting firm CBRE organizes its first regional edition of ‘Walk for a Wish’ in Chennai

India’s leading real estate consulting firm CBRE organizes its first regional edition of ‘Walk for a Wish’ in Chennai

In pursuit to create equal opportunity by providing employment to people with intellectual disabilities

• More than 400 people including CBRE employees, members of the partnering NGO Vidya Sagar and various stakeholders participated in the event
• CBRE highlighted success stories of employees with intellectual disabilities to promote inclusivity at workplace

Chennai, January 18, 2019: In an effort to promote an inclusive ecosystem for individuals with intellectual disabilities, CBRE South Asia Pvt Ltd. today organized its first regional edition of ‘Walk For A Wish’ initiative in association with NGO Vidya Sagar in Chennai.

Following the successful second edition of ‘Walk For a Wish’ Walkathon held at Gurgaon last year, this event was the third in the series. The event celebrated the success story of CBRE’s decision to employ individuals with Intellectual Disabilities in various roles.

The first edition of Walk For A Wish took place in 2017, following which CBRE employed two individuals – Mukund Ganjoo and Sidhant Kasera – with Intellectual Disability. Since then CBRE has successfully raised awareness about children/adults with Intellectual Disabilities such as Autism & Down Syndrome & build an inclusive environment.

Gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest, Mr. NC Somaiah, Vice President – Cluster Head (South) DLF Limited appreciated the joint effort made by CBRE and Vidya Sagar. Addressing the gathering, he said, “Specially-abled children are endowed with several unique skills and they have already proven their abilities in various fields. It is heartening to note that corporates like CBRE and NGOs like Vidya Sagar are coming forward to train them for gainful employment in the corporate world.”

The walkathon was flagged off by Mr. Rajat Gupta, Managing Director, Advisory and Transaction Services, CBRE. This was the first edition of ‘Walk for a Wish’ held in the southern region. Over 400 people including CBRE employees, members of Vidya Sagar and other stakeholders participated in the Walkathon to spread the message of equality and inclusiveness.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Rajat Gupta said, “In line with the ‘RISE values in CBRE, we strive to create an inclusive environment by providing equal opportunities. As a responsible corporate citizen, it is our duty to give back to the society. Walk For A Wish, provides us a platform to steer conversations for creating career opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities.”

CBRE’s RISE Values – Respect, Integrity, Service and Excellence – are the foundation upon which the organization has been built. These values are timeless and transcend all markets, service lines, languages and business cultures. ‘Walk For A Wish’ is CBRE’s flagship philanthropic initiative that supports company’s commitment towards various social responsibilities by bringing in corporates and communities together for a walk that raises awareness on several humanitarian issues.

Supporting CBRE in its initiative, Radha Ramesh, Director – Vidya Sagar, said, “Vidya Sagar shares CBRE’s vision of empowering people with multiple disabilities. Such initiatives will go a long way in sensitizing the society and help recognize the capabilities of differently-abled people.”

Parents and family members of CBRE employees who were trained by Vidya Sagar also participated in the walk and expressed their gratitude for providing their children with an opportunity to showcase their skills and acumen for corporate jobs.

Mukund Ganjoo (21) and Sidhant Kasera (23) are two special members of CBRE’s happy family and work for the marketing department of CBRE. Being the constant curious minds, they are blessed with some special abilities and have defied all odds, limitations and taboos from society to develop into gifted individuals. Mukund & Sidhant joined CBRE a year ago and have been responsible for Data Entry and Data Management in the Marketing Department. In past one year, they have not only won hearts, but have also become an integral part of the team with their attention to detail, dedication for work and professionalism. They joined CBRE following the completion of their vocational training with Muskaan – an adult training center for people with autism and down syndrome.

‘Walk For A Wish’ started in 2017 to create awareness about people with intellectual disabilities and enabling them with equal opportunities. The last two editions of the noble initiative were concluded in Gurgaon in association with NGOs like Muskaan & Continua Kids Foundation who participated in the Walkathon to raise awareness on the requirements of kids with unique abilities. CBRE also conducted sensitization activities for its employees to be supportive of their new colleagues and highlighted the importance of positive behavior and enabling environment to boost the confidence of the new employees.