It’s been over a year since Kausar has been working with the Tetra Society of North America (opens in a new window)’s netClé (opens in a new window) project, a position he landed with the help of Neil Squire’s Working Together program.

netClé is a unique customizable device that makes computers and laptops more user friendly for people with mobility limitations, allowing them to stay connected and maintain their independence.

“I do assessments for clients, see their requirements, and figure out how we can help them the best way,” Kausar explains. “We configure everything onto a hub. And then I go on an installation call with the clients to see everything is working and make them understand what they can do with it.”

Along with clients, Kausar also works with organizations such as rehab facilities. If they are interested in trying out the netClé, the team sends over a demo unit and Kausar does a walkthrough with their staff.

Reaching Out

Kausar has a spinal cord injury at the T3 level (opens in a new window), and he is paralyzed from the chest down. He uses a wheelchair to get around.

A few months before COVID-19, Kausar was looking for employment and heard about Neil Squire from a friend. He decided to check it out.

“Working from home was my biggest priority,” says Kausar, who has been working from home for 10 years now. “To start at 9 am – even at home – I have to wake up at 6 am. I would become less productive if I have to go in every day.”

Landing the Job

The Disability Foundation (opens in a new window) is a partner organization of Neil Squire through the BC Spinal Cord Injury Network. The Disability Foundation helps support six affiliated Societies, including the Tetra Society.

With the help of Working Together, Kausar soon landed his position as a technician. What was initially a six-month role kept getting extended.

“I have enjoyed working here,” he says fondly. “The whole team is really good. Helping people is so nice. Some people who have never been able to use a computer, now they are able to use it. You can see the happiness on their face. Makes you happy.”

Kausar closely works with Program Coordinator Emily Chambers.

“I love working with Kausar,” says Emily. “He’s extremely helpful and he’s very responsive. He’s always full of really good ideas and brainstorms on how we can improve and what the clients are asking for. I really enjoy working with him.”

Learning More Skills

Meanwhile, Kausar continues to learn and develop his skillset.

“I’m planning on doing some courses online. I want to give a last try to get back into programming. I’ve been thinking of doing Java (opens in a new window) certification. Let’s see how it goes!

“Your program is really nice,” says Kausar about Working Together. “It’s helped a lot. I also recommended it to a few people.”