At Van Lanschot Kempen, inclusion is part of how we work every day. Through initiatives like our Ability Programme, we're taking steps to create a workplace where everyone can contribute and grow – focusing on talent, not disability. Deniz Aydemir-Döke, Senior Specialist Inclusion and Diversity, shared her personal journey and perspective on what inclusion means.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

My name is Deniz, which means “the sea” in Turkish. I’m a 42-year-old blind woman and mom of two busy boys. I lived in Türkiye for about 30 years before my partner and I decided to pursue our PhDs in the United States. We moved to Pennsylvania and later spent some time in Puerto Rico between 2018 and 2019—many moves, many cultures! I completed my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision at Penn State, where I worked as an assistant professor before moving again. In 2022, we relocated to the Netherlands.

Can you tell us about your role and what your typical workdays are like?

I work as a Senior Specialist of Inclusion and Diversity in HR. I’ve always had an interest in inclusion and diversity as an academic, so this role is a perfect opportunity to apply my academic knowledge in practice. Like everyone else, I work on my computer—except mine has JAWS, a screen reader that reads the screen aloud so I can work independently. The key is that the systems I use must be accessible for me to do my job effectively. My day includes many online and in-person meetings, attending external events, and collaborating with colleagues. On the surface, my day looks similar to anyone else’s, as long as the tools are accessible.

What does disability mean to you personally?

For me, disability is a characteristic—it’s part of human variation. Some people are tall, some short, some have black hair, some blond. Some can see, and some cannot. But disability is also a minority status because the world isn’t built to include disabled people. This is called the social or minority model of disability. I don’t see myself as broken or needing to be fixed. I want to participate fully without sight. I also don’t see blindness as fate, misfortune, punishment, or suffering. It’s part of who I am, and it’s a proud identity.

How has your experience as a person with a disability shaped your professional journey?

My disability has shaped both who I am and my career. With my parents' support, I became the first woman in my extended family to earn a degree, and eventually, a PhD in psychology. I was determined to become a psychologist, and I did—despite professors doubting that a blind person could be a therapist.

Prejudice never stopped me, but it wasn’t easy. Each time, I had to prove I was capable—sometimes by doing things differently, but still reaching the same outcome.

The challenge is that people rarely see examples of visibly disabled individuals excelling in their careers. I never had a blind role model in my spaces, which is why I'm passionate about social justice, diversity, and creating equal opportunities. This makes my current role incredibly meaningful to me.

Can you share a moment at work where you felt especially supported or included?

In a meeting, I shared that I can’t recognize colleagues by voice and asked them to introduce themselves when speaking. One colleague did it immediately after the meeting—and they still do it. That small gesture meant a lot to me. I wouldn’t normally ask, “Who are you?” because it feels unnatural, so their effort to include me was very important.

What do you think helps create a truly inclusive workplace for people with disabilities? 

Be inclusive. Don’t be afraid to talk. Give opportunities and, instead of asking if someone can do something, focus on how they can do it and what support they need. Also, be mindful of microaggressions. For example, yes, talk to your disabled colleagues—but don’t ask, “I’m curious, were you born like this?” when you see them in the restroom.

Together we make a difference 

At Van Lanschot Kempen, we're building an organization where diversity is not only valued but truly utilized. Our Ability Program is designed to break down barriers and create an inclusive workplace.