My name is Gabriele. I work as a translator in the Deutsche Bundesbank’s Language Services Division and have a congenital visual impairment. I mainly translate ECB publications, but also handle documents provided by various business units of the Bundesbank. 

I studied translation studies in English and Russian and, after almost nine years of professional experience in the private sector, came to the Bundesbank somewhat by chance. When I saw the job advertisement, it was perfectly suited to my field of expertise and my interest in financial topics. Nevertheless, the change was a big decision for me, as I previously held a management position and had now moved to a non-leadership position with a temporary contract. Thanks to the support of my managers at the time and the representatives for disabled persons, my contract was later made permanent.

Since joining the Bundesbank in 2011, I have experienced many positive changes, both professionally and personally. Working in Language Services enables me to learn every day and to exchange ideas with colleagues from various specialist areas. I find it interesting that I often come into contact with very complex financial issues when translating. In order to be able to translate texts well, one has to constantly acquire new knowledge through independent research and communication with experts. I find this work very enriching.

The Bundesbank has created an accessible working environment for me using technical work aids. I use special magnification software and a very large screen. In addition, the Bundesbank offers all the amenities of a modern working environment – a height-adjustable desk, an ergonomic office chair and excellent workplace lighting. These are optimal conditions for me.

Since I need help in everyday life due to my visual impairment, I have learnt to speak openly about my needs. My colleagues are aware of my disability and support me wherever they can. Within the team, attempts are made to distribute tasks in such a way that they are accessible and feasible for me.

The Bundesbank now faces the challenge of ensuring accessibility in the digital world, too.  Digitalisation is forging ahead, and it is therefore important that organisations such as the Bundesbank ensure that software, digital platforms and content are accessible to all.

It is clear that my work as a translator will change over the next few years, mainly due to artificial intelligence. I believe that the Bundesbank can continue to offer opportunities for people with disabilities, especially in the area of agile working. Agile teams are flexible and tailored to the skills of team members, regardless of hierarchical structures. This provides people with disabilities the opportunity to bring in their special skills, which in turn creates an inclusive working environment.

With regard to corporate culture, I can say that the Bundesbank embraces the idea of inclusion. While integration was about people with disabilities adapting themselves to the “normal” system, inclusion recognises the uniqueness and perspectives of employees with disabilities as an asset. I see the Bundesbank as an employer who supports me in my personal and professional development and is aware of the importance of accessibility.

Finally, I would like to stress the importance of speaking openly about individual needs, perspectives and experiences as a person with a disability, not only in order to receive support, but also to be heard as a valuable voice in an increasingly inclusive, agile and digital working environment.