Iván Ramírez: “In society, we must understand that people are diverse”

After a phase of acceptance and rehabilitation, he enrolled in a course offered by a foundation dedicated to training people with disabilities and connecting them with companies. In 2018, he submitted his application to join MAPFRE, in the processing area, and will soon be completing seven years at our company. 

What is your daily life like?

Daily work in the office has been a process of many changes and adaptation. I've learned how important it is to plan. Although I face some circumstances that are more challenging than those of others and occasionally encounter difficult situations, planning my day is a great help. I like to wake up very early and organize myself based on which activities are the most important or relevant, allowing me to prioritize them accordingly. When I'm in the office and whenever I need it, I have the support of my colleagues. I've always felt very supported.

Who have been your greatest support?

My family has been my greatest support, especially my mother and my siblings. They have always been by my side and have been a driving force for motivation.

Other people I've met with disabilities have also provided great support for me. There's something about shared experiences that brings you together. They are resilient people, people who are capable of adapting. We often hear the word resilience, but it is not easy to develop it. And I'm talking in general, not just for those with a disability. We live in constant change, and we all try to adapt. 

What do you think is society's pending task in terms of inclusion?

Things have evolved positively, and now there is more talk about disability and diversity. However, there are still many things to do. For me, the most important thing is to talk, inform, and communicate to society what is happening. That is what we need to do better. The political and business agenda should always be focused on diversity. Opening spaces for dialog and raising more awareness and visibility. This will always lead to an exchange of ideas. In society in general, we must understand that people are diverse. Adaptations in companies and public spaces must focus on including as many people as possible, understanding that we can all experience different situations.

How did you experience integration at MAPFRE?

It has been a pleasant experience since I started my process at the company. I've always identified with the vision of MAPFRE. Not only at a professional level, but also at a personal level. There has been full willingness from all hierarchical levels within the company. Colleagues, coordinators, and directors always show respect and a willingness to help and understand. MAPFRE’s vision is to include people based on their abilities, to see them for what they can develop and achieve, rather than their life circumstances.

Some of my personal interests and tastes have always revolved around cars, so when I joined the company, I already knew some about that line of business. Working on something related to cars is, in some way, an enjoyment for me. 

What would you tell someone in a similar situation to yours?

Everything is part of a process and adaptation. I believe that when there are adversities, the processes are gradual; you cannot expect everything to be solved overnight. We need to look for opportunities for change and work hard on transformation. I know there are circumstances that don't depend on us, but we can always look at the situation we've been given from a different perspective. I see it as a challenge with oneself; individual work and personal and professional development seem essential to me.

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