Speech of Janice Sevilla Uy

Career Talk, November 16, 2009
Case Room, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde

Good Afternoon. It is such a great opportunity to be one of your guest speakers for today. I am Janice Sevilla Uy from Administration and Finance of Liwanag Candle Factory.

It was in year 2003 when our company began accepting Deaf employees from De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. And just like any other applicant, they had to go through a standard screening process and were hired as On-the-Job or OJT Trainees. We are also exploring the possibility of hiring more for our production area, but of course, in a job which is suited to them.

Our company accepts Deaf applicants not only because you are loyal and reliable employees but also because we want to give you an equal chance in career development with a hearing person. We believe that everybody has their own skills and talents; and your disability is not a hindrance for you to show what you’ve got. It’s not about what you can say but more on what you can do.

In our experience with Deaf employees, the things I found important and which I liked the most with them is that they are punctual, friendly, approachable, and very dedicated at work. We saw in them the willingness to learn and they can easily adapt to the working environment.

We conducted at least an hour of sign language lessons for our other employees to address communication problems. Other than that, their co-employees have been expressing positive feedback about working with them

We are also glad that there are parents who call us to know more about the working performance of their son or daughter. We know that you, parents, have the most important role in making your child feel how much they are loved and appreciated by the society. Your guidance will indeed, lead them to be a better and more confident individual.

Actually, we had a Deaf employee for about six years. He was assigned in our Marketing Department as a Graphic Artist. From being a trainee, we absorbed him and he eventually became our regular employee. Just like him, you can also be employed in different companies and organizations. Just believe in yourself and don’t hesitate to show your talents.

Don’t let your disability bring your confidence down. Instead, take it as a challenge for you to reach your dreams. You may experience some difficulties before and after finding employment, but this is just a common experience for everyone. You just have to stay strong and competitive.

To close, let us remember that we are all living in one society wherein we have freedom to express ourselves and an equal chance to prove ourselves as well. This is why in Liwanag Candle Factory, we practice fair treatment and do not tolerate discrimination. We accept students like you because we believe in your strengths and capabilities to do better than others.

Always keep in mind that God created us unique. You are all unique in your own ways.

Again, a pleasant afternoon to all. Thank you.