Last Thursday, the Work Conference took place. It was a special and inspiring day, entirely dedicated to VIPs (Visual Impaired Persons) in the labor market.
There were engaging contributions from, among others, René Bakker (Professor of Inclusive Labor Markets and Entrepreneurship, Tilburg University) and former Olympian Anthonie Wurth, who each shared valuable insights from their own experience and expertise.
We also organized our own breakout session around BreakingBarriers4VIPs@Work. In this session, we (employers, VIPs, and healthcare professionals) first engaged in conversation through a speed dating round. Afterwards, discussions continued in various groups at macro, meso, and micro levels. At the macro level, policymakers were central; at the meso level, employers and occupational physicians; and at the micro level, the experiences and needs of VIPs themselves. These conversations allowed the formulated goals to be further refined and supplemented with the perspectives of those present. The session not only yielded valuable insights but also new collaborations from people who want to contribute to this project. This once again highlighted the importance of working together to create more opportunities and sustainable participation in the labor market.
The day concluded with an inspiring story from Joost Rigter, marking the end of the Work Conference.
We look back on a successful and valuable event and are already looking forward to the next Work Conference in 2027.