Taswell Smit, a hearing-impaired baker at Checkers Mountain Mill in Worcester, has encouraged his colleagues to learn South African Sign Language (SASL). <\/p>\n
Smit joined the supermarket chain eight years ago as part of Youth Employment Services (YES), a learnership programme aimed at reducing youth unemployment. After successfully completing 12 months of on-the-job training Smit was permanently employed by Checkers, initially as a Bakery Assistant, followed by a promotion to Baker. He credits this opportunity with improving his life and boosting his self-confidence. <\/p>\n
\u201cI enjoy being able to communicate with hearing-impaired customers and to make them comfortable with their shopping experience,\u201d said Smith. <\/p>\n
\u201cIt has also been exciting to see my colleagues so eager to learn sign language \u2013 it makes me feel valued and understood.\u201d <\/p>\n
His team members are inspired by his tenacity and success. <\/p>\n
\u201cHaving Taswell part of the Bakery team has taught us humility and respect for others,\u201d shares Evie Valentyn, Bakery Controller at Checkers Mountain Mill. <\/p>\n
\u201cTaswell\u2019s presence has been a blessing in so many ways,\u201d added David Hartzenberg, Branch Manager. \u201cHe has proved that small changes or improvements can make a big difference to the deaf or hard of hearing. I am proud and honoured to work for a company that promotes a diverse and supportive workplace.\u201d <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Taswell Smit, a hearing-impaired baker at Checkers Mountain Mill in Worcester, has encouraged his colleagues to learn South African Sign Language 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