In recognition of Disability Employment Awareness Month, the Chamber is honored to recognize the innumerable contributions of people with disabilities to our region’s workplaces and workforce by sharing the perspectives of regional leaders who identify as individuals with disabilities as well as leaders advocating every day for the disabled community.

How has your identity impacted and helped shape you into the leader you are today?

Siah McCabe MHSA, MBA, Senior Strategy Consultant, Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Health, and Chair, Young Professionals Council:

“I identify as a cis-gendered woman, African American, daughter, and neurodivergent young professional, among other things. It is impossible not to acknowledge these as the essence of my leadership journey. Converging identities have created space for me to be empathetic, self-aware, and understanding. Identity has shaped my experiences in how I navigate my community and how I am perceived, which in turn, molds the leader.”

Jordan Schubert, Long-time Special Olympics Athlete, Manager of Athlete Leadership & Young Athletes, Special Olympics Pennsylvania:

“I try not to think of myself as someone with a disability. If we really think about it, everyone has things they can and cannot do. What I choose to do is try to build upon my strengths so they can better make up for the areas I struggle in either because of my disability or other reasons.”

Maku Warrakah-Ali, MBA, PHRM, Chief Executive Officer, KenCCID (She/her/hers):

“I remember being overlooked, feeling invisible, and staying quiet because I did not feel that my contribution mattered or was welcome. Those with biases could not recognize talent when it came in my unconventional package. As a leader serving people with disabilities, I am keenly conscious and deliberate in having all voices heard and facilitating the success of meaningful inclusion of disabled persons at KenCCID.”

The Chamber positions diversity, equity, and inclusion as critical for business maturation and growth. Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiative drives economic competitiveness, highlights diverse employee populations, and promotes inclusive growth throughout the Greater Philadelphia region.