According to the 2022 Canadian Survey on Disability(CSD), 27% of Canadians aged 15 years and older (8.0 million people) have oneor more disabilities that limit their daily activities. Employment is importantfor individuals with disabilities as it provides economic self-sufficiency, aplatform to use their skills, and increased engagement in community life.

Research by Deloitte has shown that companies withinclusive cultures are eight times more likely to achieve better businessoutcomes, which are closely tied to employee performance and productivity. Thesuccess of businesses depends on the success of their employees, and employeesatisfaction is crucial for productivity and success.

Lisa Kelly is a business manager for the OntarioChamber of Commerce. With extensive experience in business development, programmanagement, training, and workforce development, I am a passionate advocate fora prosperous Ontario. My role involves reaching out to organizations to promotethe benefits of joining the  'indispensable partner of business' network of over 60,000 businesses, organizations, and associationsacross the province. The OCC focuses on advancing policy priorities andrecommendations to the government on policies that affect the province'sbusinesses and communities. The OCC engages in ongoing discussions acrossvarious policy areas such as health, energy, sustainability, AI, workforcedevelopment, economic reconciliation, and infrastructure policy.

On a more personal note, inclusion is a businessimperative. It contributes to productivity and a healthy culture. Diversity inour workforce provides unique perspectives and helps us identify and removebarriers for customers and employees. It drives innovation and makes ourworkplaces better.

For more information:https://discoverability.network/#open-modal

Email: lisakelly@occ.ca