D2L partners with Valuable 500 to support disability inclusion with AI-powered learning platform

D2L has partnered with the Valuable 500, a collective of global CEOs focused on disability inclusion, to provide its Brightspace platform as the learning environment for the Generation Valuable programme. 

The partnership will support leadership development for people with disabilities while promoting disability inclusion across businesses.

The Valuable 500 addresses disability exclusion in business by encouraging global companies to integrate disability inclusion into their leadership and operational strategies. 

The Generation Valuable programme, launching later this year, pairs experienced executives with emerging disabled leaders in a six-month mentorship scheme, focusing on building inclusive leadership skills and expanding professional networks.

D2L Brightspace was selected as the learning platform for this initiative due to its accessibility features, including compatibility with screen readers and read-aloud functionality. 

“We’re dedicated to delivering learning experiences that meet the needs of all learners,” said Stewart Watts, Senior Vice President, EMEA and APAC at D2L. 

“The Valuable 500 is leading the way in advancing disability inclusion in business, and we’re proud to support them in this vital work. This partnership is testament to our ongoing commitment to creating environments where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”

These tools will support participants in accessing learning resources without barriers, ensuring a more inclusive experience for all users. The platform also integrates analytics that offers insights into participants' strengths and areas for development.

The Generation Valuable programme will be supported by D2L Brightspace throughout its implementation, with three cohorts planned over the next year. Participants will engage with content designed to foster inclusive leadership skills and collaborate with other business professionals. 

The programme will culminate at SYNC25, the world’s first disability accountability summit, scheduled to take place in Tokyo. SYNC25 will bring together CEOs, senior leaders, and representatives from the global disability community to assess progress and set future goals for disability inclusion.

"By giving underrepresented voices a platform and making disability inclusion a core part of leadership, Generation Valuable participants are shaping the future of inclusive leadership," said Sarah Clements, Head of Inclusive Leadership at the Valuable 500. 

"We piloted the programme on a different platform in 2023, but this time we needed a provider with superior accessibility features and long-term potential. So far, D2L has exceeded our expectations."

D2L’s accessibility features, including automated captions and wide-ranging device compatibility, were key factors in the Valuable 500’s decision to use the platform for Generation Valuable. The platform’s ability to offer personalised learning through its analytics system also allows for tailored experiences that meet the diverse needs of participants.

“Disability inclusion has been missing from leadership agendas for too long, and data on disability is often left out of reports and indices, which means it's overlooked in performance assessments,” said Katy Talikowska, Valuable 500 CEO.

“People with disabilities are also significantly underrepresented in media and advertising, and much of the content remains inaccessible to the diverse audiences in this community. We’re determined to break down these systemic barriers once and for all, with the backing of over 500 partners all working towards the same goal."