Technology can build your career, in spite of physical disabilities

Negative attitude towards people with physical disabilities can prove to be a major discouragement. In fact, technology can empower specially challenged individuals to be productive to the society as well as build a better career in technology.

Carlos De Saro, a man with Down syndrome is one such inspiration who showed a deep interest in technology. Presently, he is training others with Down syndrome to have a positive outlook towards life. After achieving an associate’s degree in computer systems, he realized that there is a lack of learning opportunities and tools for people like himself to get trained and land a job.

After acknowledging this, Carlos De Saro opened a non-profit organisation, ‘Fighting Against Adversity’ and trains kids with Down syndrome on how to use technology for the maximum benefit of the society. Carlos De Saro mentioned on Microsoft’s blog, “I started my non-profit organization with the goal to train people in technology with job skills and also establish links with industry and the government to give them better job inclusion in society,”

Microsoft has also contributed its software to Fighting Against Adversity, and employees volunteer at the center to help teach the students how to use the programs. The volunteers of Fighting Against Adversity visit the Microsoft Technology Centre frequently to receive training on Windows 8, Office 365, apps and other technologies as well.

Carlos De Saro found the Windows 8.1’s touchscreen more accessible. In Word, the touchscreen made it even easier to fix grammatical mistakes, correct misspellings and print.

“To be job-skilled in today’s workforce, the use of technology is a must,’, says Carlos De Saro. He also stated that he plans to expand his services to adults and to those with hearing, visual and mobility impairments.