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A team of Nanyang Technological University (NTU) undergraduates recently launched an exhibition focusing on autism in the workplace.
It will be held from Feb. 20 to 26 at Guoco Tower B2 Atrium.
Photo via Daniel Seow.
This is part of a campaign called The Autism Advantage, which aims to encourage both employers and employees to help create a more inclusive workforce in Singapore.
The exhibition showcases informative content that includes misconceptions about autism, stories of working adults who have autism, and tips on how to communicate better with colleagues who have autism.
Photo via Daniel Seow.
Photo via Daniel Seow.
There are also several interactive features on display at the exhibition, which will help visitors connect better with the struggles of colleagues with autism.
Visitors can watch an immersive video that simulates how a sensory overload feels like in a workplace environment.
Photo via Macarius Chia / The Autism Advantage.
They can also try the assistive devices on display, which are designed to help employees with autism. This is thanks to the support of Tech Able, an assistive technology centre jointly managed by SG Enable and SPD.
Such devices include the Protac Sensit chair that simulates a tight hug and helps to calm users.
Photo via Macarius Chia / The Autism Advantage
The team shared that they were inspired to start on this campaign after their research on inclusive hiring in Singapore.
In addition, they hoped to highlight the untapped value that people with autism have for society.
"The strengths of most people with autism include attention to detail, exceptional memory and incredible level of concentration," they said, highlighting some of their findings.
At the launch, Jacelyn Lim, Executive Director of Autism Resource Centre (Singapore) shared that the public should seek first to "understand and embrace differences" as well as to "appreciate the strengths that people with autism bring to the table."
Chia Ai Ling, Director, Communications and Community Engagement, SG Enable added that people with autism all need "supportive bosses and colleagues."
Chia Ai Ling, Director, Communications and Community Engagement, SG Enable speaking at the event - via Macarius Chia / The Autism Advantage.
Even as the team was setting up for the launch of the exhibition, some business owners came down to visit, and expressed interest in adopting some of the assistive technologies for their workplace.
This was "heartening", the team shared.
They also expressed that it is a collective effort from society, businesses and the public to make workplaces in Singapore more inclusive.
Fittingly, the last exhibit is a centrepiece mural for the public to stick a sticker to pledge their support for the cause.
Jacelyn Lim, Executive Director of Autism Resource Centre (Singapore), adding her support to the mural - via Macarius Chia / The Autism Advantage.
As part of the campaign, the team raised awareness on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
They have also rolled out an e-resource playbook catered to businesses on their website, in collaboration with SG Enable and Autism Resource Centre.
Top image via Macarius Chia / The Autism Advantage