Virgin Australia shattered another glass ceiling this week. They shared on social media that they have hired a young woman with Down Syndrome as a ground crew member.
"We are so proud of our Melbourne Guest Services team member, Elle Sayers, who will be participating in a panel at the World Down Syndrome Congress in Brisbane, Australia," the company wrote. "Elle joined our team in May for a trial period and has now secured a part-time position with Virgin Australia. Today, she proudly wears her uniform, shares her personal experience of finding a job, and helps everyone understand the uniqueness in every person."
Elle (Alexandra) is the daughter of Kate and Luke Sayers, social activists who founded the Inclusion Foundation, an Australian charity dedicated to including people with Down Syndrome in society and the workplace.
On the organization’s website, it states: “Kate saw firsthand the devastating effects of exclusion. Back in 2009, her 6-year-old daughter Alexandra, who was born with Down Syndrome, wasn’t included in the local dance school. As a result, Kate decided to create a special dance program (emotion21), combining wellness and fitness, and addressing broader issues often faced by people with Down Syndrome.
“As Elle grew older, the challenges became even more difficult. Kate realized that many people with Down Syndrome in Australia have little to no job prospects, and the countless courses offered to them often lead nowhere. What they need is a unique program tailored to their needs, while also meeting the needs of employers, ensuring longevity and success for both parties.”
The foundation’s motto is that people with Down Syndrome should receive at least minimum wage for their work, and businesses should recognize the positive impact and value of including a person with Down Syndrome in their workforce. With this agenda in mind, the parents established the Impact21 project, a vocational training program for people with Down Syndrome. In 2020, the first 12 graduates completed the program.
“We envision an inclusive world where people with Down Syndrome are equal, active, and respected members of society,” explains the Inclusion Foundation. “This vision comes to life through our programs – emotion21 and Impact21 – which operate in the state of Victoria with plans to expand across Australia.”
Now, aside from their organizational activities, Kate and Luke Sayers have a personal reason to be immensely proud.
