At Aurora50’s inaugural Inclusive Workplaces Summit, senior leaders who are parents of people of determination shared workplace solutions in a compelling panel discussion.
Sylvia Kluge, Head of Service Quality Operational Projects at Siemens Energy, began the panel discussion with a powerful statement: “Deadlines can wait, but my daughter with cerebral palsy cannot.”
Ms Kluge shared how her company’s flexible hours and work-from-home options allow her to balance her daughter’s needs with professional responsibilities.
“Flexibility lets me work smarter. I can prioritise tasks, find efficiencies and maintain a balance,” she said.
“Employers must realise flexibility empowers us to excel while meeting our children’s unique needs.”
Dr Sameera Alobeidli of NMC Healthcare highlighted how improved government and private sector policies are helping working parents of people of determination (POD).
“My organisation lets me create a flexible schedule around my child’s needs, allowing me to perform at my best at work,” said Dr Alobeidli, who holds multiple titles, including Director of Strategy and Business Development, Allied Healthcare Professional Program Director and Paediatric Neurosciences Lead at NMC.
She emphasised the value of virtual communication with her team, which allows for easy collaboration.
“Using virtual tools has helped me establish a strong support system at work and home,” she added.
Zahra Abdulrahman Aljasmi, Managing Director of Georgetown Early Intervention Center, reflected on her journey to acceptance and balancing work-life as a mother of twins with autism.
“I thought I was alone raising twins on the autism spectrum until I met a mother with triplets in the same situation during my children’s assessment at a Dubai hospital,” she said.
“That meeting changed my outlook and I began connecting with other parents facing similar challenges.”
Ms Aljasmi encouraged parents to act early, ask questions and seek support.
“Parents of children of determination often feel isolated or stuck in denial during the early stages,” she said.
“But this is the most critical time for children to receive therapy. Navigate your doubts and questions, but don’t delay your child’s progress during this phase.”
Parents of people of determination should approach employers with solutions rather than problems, advised Yosr Hamza, Director of Legal & Compliance at Gartner.
“I clearly outlined what I needed to excel as an employee and support my son, who has a rare [unspecified] condition,” she said.
This proactive approach ensured she secured the necessary adjustments to succeed at work while meeting her child’s needs.
Ms Hamza also encouraged parents to demonstrate how their unique experiences contribute to a diverse and resilient workplace.
“Show them that building such an environment boosts loyalty and team engagement,” she said.
“Clearly communicate your availability and boundaries so expectations are managed and the entire team can offer meaningful support.”
Support groups provide a vital network for parents of people of determination, said Ms Aljasmi.
“Parents of neurotypical children may sympathise, but they often can’t fully grasp the unique challenges we face,” she said.
“Support groups create a safe space where we can connect, share and ask questions without fear of judgement.”
Ms Hamza echoed this, sharing how informal WhatsApp groups allow parents to exchange stories and strategies.
“These networks empower parents to advocate for their children and navigate challenges with confidence.”
Ms Hamza stressed the importance of breaking the stigma around disabilities by speaking up.
“I’ve brought my son’s story to legal conferences because it’s part of my life. Sharing helps dismantle stereotypes,” she said.
Dr Alobeidli also explained the importance of open communication at work to encourage understanding and support.
“Being candid about your situation with leadership and policymakers not only creates a conducive environment for yourself but also improves conditions for other parents and caregivers of people of determination in the workplace,” she said.
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