Russell Zacks, owner of the boutique Russell’s Bakery, located in the Mahane Yehudah market in Jerusalem

“For me, employing a worker with a disability means offering equal opportunities to the entire population as they are, to attempt to see beyond the disability, and to understand that there is a person with abilities equal to mine, but he or she has difficulty with something – which can be taught if we really want to.

Additionally, I’m learning to be more patient, I am acquiring skills and tools in order to deal with the workers. At the end of the day, when the bakery closes, I’m filled with pride, for each employee, because they all worked wonderfully, even if it’s a bit difficult for them, they overcame their disability.

Two things are very characteristic of Mordi – his big smile, and his diligence. Of course, like everyone, he had moments of anger, disagreement with other workers, and other difficulties, which he had to learn and deal with. But my impression, after many years of work, is his big smile at the beginning of the work day and at every other opportunity, and the positive energy he brings to his work.

Inclusion of employees with a disability in a business might be very challenging, but it is even more satisfying. In addition to their commitment to work and their desire to improve and learn more, being around them and working with them really opens one’s heart and brings joy.”

 Russell Zacks, owner of the boutique Russell’s Bakery, located in the Mahane Yehudah market in Jerusalem, together with employee Mordechai [Mordi] Mozeson)