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The pandemic does not stop work inclusion. This is demonstrated by the story of Maurizio De Caro, a 28-year-old from Bari with Down syndrome, who recently signed his first employment contract at C&C, Italy's largest Apple Premium Reseller. Every day, Maurizio goes to work at the company's headquarters in the regional capital, as a warehouse logistics officer.

Amid the days marked by government decrees aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus, there are those willing to bet on him, even when the crisis hits hard. The Bari company, after an introductory interview, a practical test, and a second selection interview, welcomed him enthusiastically into their large family.

For the first few weeks of work, Maurizio will be supported by a tutor from the Italian Down Syndrome Association, Bari branch, a central figure in his growth, both in his work and personal life, who will help him learn new tasks, new rules, and adapt to the work environment where he will spend his daily life. An essential step towards achieving his autonomy. After that, he will continue on his own, thanks to the collaboration of his colleagues.

“Once again, our company proves to be against the current and today, during the second wave of the epidemic, which sees closures, layoffs, and redundancies, decides to play a leading role in a truly inclusive experience by hiring a person with Down syndrome for a role that is truly ‘on par’ with others,” comments Luca Gigli, Human Resources Director of C&C. “A story like many others, someone might say. But no, because Maurizio is a young man with Down syndrome whose story deserves to be told, because we are still far from achieving equality in terms of rights for people with disabilities. Maurizio is one of those for whom law 68 of 1999 (Rules for the right to work for people with disabilities, ed.) has served to create a fundamental path towards autonomy for people with disabilities.”

Precious, for the culmination of this process that led to Maurizio's employment, has been the synergy and collaboration between C&C and the Italian Down Syndrome Association, Bari branch (AIPD).

“We are happy for this work and life experience that Maurizio has thoroughly deserved,” comments Viviana Lagattolla, psychotherapist and head of the AIPD Bari Insertion Work Service. “Entering the world of work is not a random stage in the lives of young people with Down syndrome, but the result of a coordinated and coherent path based on autonomy and a good self-awareness. Experiencing an opportunity like the one generously offered by C&C represents for Maurizio an additional step towards building an adult identity. The reception and respect found at C&C are precious values and, in the face of the economic crisis that many companies are experiencing today, this employment should be doubly appreciated. There is still much to be done in terms of work inclusion for people with disabilities, there is a barrier of stereotypes and indifference that we, as an association, seek to break down on a daily basis. We thank Luca Gigli for believing in Maurizio, in his abilities and potential, and for strongly wanting him on his team.”    

Just one week ago, Maurizio signed his contract: two signatures on a piece of paper, on one side that of an entrepreneur who has offered a job and inclusion, on the other that of a young man who has realized one of his dreams.