What is UMUNTU?
UMUNTU is a consultancy in disability inclusion for Uruguay and Latin America. It accelerates processes of disability inclusion within organizations by providing tailored solutions in consultancy, training, labor inclusion, and certification. The approach is designed specifically for a sector where the impact is measurable and meaningful — a reflection of professional, scientific, and tech industry standards. This project has built its reputation around the dedication to enhanced accessibility and inclusion, ensuring that every organization has the tools needed to integrate diversity in a sustainable way.
Main Benefit
The benefit of engaging with UMUNTU lies in its comprehensive and impactful model. The program’s value can be seen in the key figures and facts:
- Bcorp score of 93.4
- Focus on disability inclusion and accessibility
- Services including consultancy, training, labor inclusion, and certification
- Operational reach throughout Uruguay and Latin America
- Strong ties with clients in both government and industry sectors
Each of these points reinforces the promise of real change… ensuring that organizations are not only legally compliant but also socially responsible.
Global Inclusion Effort
UMUNTU’s intervention model scales far beyond a single nation. Operating throughout Latin America, the approach is designed to provide comprehensive solutions to organizations of all sizes, ensuring that disability inclusion remains at the forefront of strategic and operational priorities. The impact of this model lies in its well-structured yet dynamic framework that allows for rapid acceleration of inclusion initiatives, ensuring that the benefits of accessibility are realized broadly across different markets. The methodology champions a flexible yet robust approach, mixing rigorous consulting standards with an engaging, human-centered touch… making inclusion not just a policy, but a dynamic journey.
Team and Leadership
At the core of the project is a dedicated team with deep expertise in diversity and inclusion. The leadership includes Mariana Goday, the cofounder and director whose visionary guidance has been a driving force, along with Gabriela Barrios, the labor inclusion manager, Carolina Guazzini, the diversity and inclusion consultant, Silvia Areosa, the labor operator and sign language interpreter, and Nellybell Primera, who serves as the administration manager. The team is not just a collection of professionals; it is an alliance of clients, collaborators, allies, and suppliers committed to the cause. Their combined expertise represents a rich mix of insights and practical experience that propels UMUNTU’s mission to new heights.
Notable Announcements
The project’s progression is punctuated by several noteworthy announcements. In a bid to further promote employment opportunities for people with disabilities, UMUNTU has joined the Talent Latam Network, an initiative supported by the ONCE Foundation. This opens a broader pathway for the labor inclusion of people with disabilities in the region. Additionally, a new training program for inclusion has been launched thanks to funding from Inefop, responsible for conducting four training cycles designed to accelerate labor inclusion initiatives. Furthermore, a new role in Global Compact Uruguay has been welcomed with Mariana Goday joining the Board of Directors, thereby expanding the dialogue on global diversity and responsible business practices. These milestones mark critical progress points for maintaining momentum in the mission for inclusivity.
Additional Strategies in Action
UMUNTU stands out for its strategy of not simply being a consultancy but a pervasive movement in the realm of inclusion. The approach features a blend of robust methodologies and dynamic consulting practices which have continually proven effective. The steady expansion of client portfolios, including organizations like Aero Carrasco, BASF, Británico, CEPAL, Farmashop, IMM, MC, MEC, Nu-Chi, Nu-Col, Nu-UY, Nuevo Centro, Porto, Quifort, Summum, Telefónica, and WTC, emphasizes the broad acceptance of its strategies. Each client reflects a commitment to transforming workplace culture and creating sustainable, inclusive environments that foster real change.
Project Impact
- SDG 4 – Quality Education: Through consistent training programs, the project fosters inclusive and equitable learning environments.
- SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: By advancing labor inclusion and accessibility, it contributes to productive employment and sustainable economic growth.
- SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: The consultancy’s ongoing efforts push forward the agenda of diminished disparities and enhanced representation.
- SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Partnering with several national and international bodies, it reinforces trust and accountability in inclusion practices.
Accessibility and Client Trust
UMUNTU’s commitment to transparency and effectiveness in the field of disability inclusion translates into a trusted voice within the community. The project not only focuses on imparting comprehensive services but also builds strong, supportive networks through its extensive list of clients and initiatives. The accessibility of information is emphasized by clear communication channels, and the engagement is strengthened with dedicated contact points such as the email address somos@umuntu.uy. Additionally, the emphasis on accessibility extends to the website itself, which features a dedicated accessibility page to ensure that all users can benefit from the information provided. UMUNTU’s method, which marries detailed consulting with empathetic outreach, continues to serve as a benchmark in the journey toward a more inclusive and accessible future… one that champions fairness, empowerment, and proactive societal engagement.
