More than one billion people - approximately 15% of the global population experience disability.People with disabilities and their contributions are integral to shaping a sustainable and inclusive future.For this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we’re highlighting a very personal story from one of our colleagues, James Boyle, Head of HR in the UK. James shares his journey of resilience and insights into how workplaces can foster inclusivity without barriers.Having faced the life-changing challenge of a right leg, above knee amputation during his university years, James reflects on how essential it is to remove societal and institutional barriers for individuals with disabilities.He actively participates in numerous projects and hobbies in- and outside of MAHLE. Among them, he is an active swimmer, a member of multiple singing groups and an avid language learner. His positive attitude can be inspiration to many at MAHLE: “I have been really fortunate in being able to do many things that I never thought I would do again, after my amputation, I have my independence and generally appreciate life.”James continues to advocate for improvements in attitudes towards disability: “There are significant challenges for people with disabilities – too many to list. So, for “International Day of Persons with Disabilities”, think about how you would want to be treated if you had a disability and how you can affect that change for others.”This day also reminds us of the values instilled by our founders, Hermann and Dr. Ernst Mahle, who were convinced that “People come first.” This principle, a large leap forward at the time of its inception 100 years ago, continues to guide us as we support our employees and broader initiatives. One of those is the MAHLE Foundation, which supports projects that empower people with disabilities. At MAHLE, we are committed to creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and supported — because inclusion is not an option; it’s a responsibility we uphold every day. #MAHLE #Inclusion #Diversity #IDPWD #DisabilityAwareness #PeopleComeFirst#DiversityMatters #StrongerTogether
