Finding a job is challenging enough, particularly so for folks who have a physical disability or condition. AMI-tv’s latest series spotlights Canadians who want to work despite being in situations that—at first glance—would seem to make them unemployable.
Debuting Friday with back-to-back episodes beginning at 9 p.m. ET/PT, Employable Me—adapted from the British series by Thomas Howe Associates Inc.—introduces viewers to Canadians who are willing to work but are held back because of their health status. The first instalment introduces Becca and Riley, two people willing and able to work on the road to independence.
They both face a rocky road and I admit to assuming failure was in the cards. Becca’s Tourette Syndrome causes her to yell out “Roar!” several times a minute, and even more frequently and at increasing volume when she’s stressed. Becca has plenty keeping her on edge: bills to pay, including rent, and neighbours who complain about her roaring. Cameras capture the free-spirited gal as she gamely drops off resumés for interviews that almost never happen. The same is true for Riley, whose Asperger Syndrome keeps him living at home with his mother and dreaming of the day he can move out.
But rather than focusing on what’s not working and those stacks of job applications that went nowhere, Employable Me sides with the positive as specialists work with Becca, Riley and others to find them suitable employment. Turns out Becca’s got a flair for flowers, which leads to a gig at a florist’s shop. Riley, who loves pizza, is perfectly-matched for a role at Pizza Nova. Future episodes focus on job applicants with autism, blindness, OCD, Down Syndrome and ADHD.
What Employable Me proves is that anyone can find a job, if the time is taken to focus and figure out what the applicant’s strengths are, regardless of their health condition. It’s inspiring stuff.
Employable Me airs Fridays at 9 and 10 p.m. ET/PT on AMI-tv. Check AMI’s website for channel information in your area.
Image courtesy of Accessible Media Inc.
