Zayed University (ZU) has collaborated with The Butterfly, an innovative social enterprise in Abu Dhabi, to promote inclusive employment opportunities for People of Determination.
This partnership reinforces Zayed University’s ongoing commitment to supporting people of determination with comprehensive educational and vocational assistance. The university’s Student Accessibility Services (SAS) department is instrumental in ensuring equal opportunities by offering personalized academic, technical, and vocational support. Through its efforts, the SAS department prepares students of determination for the workforce, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in their careers.
The collaboration with The Butterfly further strengthens this mission by creating meaningful pathways to employment for students and alumni of determination. Under the partnership, The Butterfly will offer internship and job opportunities tailored to the unique talents and needs of students of determination. These opportunities will be facilitated by ZU’s Student Career Development Office, which will guide candidates through the selection process and connect them with potential employers.
Additionally, the partnership includes several impactful initiatives, such as:
Community Engagement: Zayed University students of determination will actively participate in The Butterfly’s Employment Committee, where they will gain employability skills and insights into inclusive workplace practices through bi-monthly meetings.
Career Fairs: The Butterfly will join Zayed University’s career events, inviting members of its Inclusive Employment Ecosystem to foster collaboration and promote inclusion in the workforce.
Workshops and Mentorship Programs: Both parties will co-host workshops, mentorship initiatives, and advocate for inclusive employment policies, including NAFIS.
Awareness Sessions: The Butterfly will offer neurodiversity awareness sessions to Zayed University staff and students, fostering a deeper understanding of inclusive practices.
Commenting on the partnership, Prof. Micheal Allen, Acting Vice President at Zayed University said, “Zayed University is proud to collaborate with The Butterfly to create meaningful opportunities for our students and alumni of determination. Our strong Student Accessibility Services department ensures that students of determination receive equal educational opportunities and are empowered to succeed in the workforce. This partnership further aligns with our vision of building an inclusive society where everyone can thrive and contribute”.
Marilena Di Coste, Founder and CEO of The Butterfly, stated, “We are pleased to sign this Memorandum of Understanding and embark on this meaningful partnership with Zayed University. Their involvement is critical in fostering dialogue and understanding between the education and employment sectors, paving the way for inclusive employment. Together, we aim to create meaningful job opportunities for students of determination, equipping them for the workforce while preparing workplaces to embrace employees with determination”.
This partnership further solidifies Zayed University’s leadership in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the UAE’s workforce, highlighting its commitment to creating a supportive environment for People of Determination both on campus and in their professional careers.
