Michelle Correa
Adrian Muturi
Eric Munywoki
Paula Muñoz Osacar
Paloma Ramos
Dominican University
Universidad de Navarra
Kenyatta University
Anjali Chaudhry
Mary Ragui
Isabel Rodriguez Tejedo
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TASUBINSA is a social enterprise in Navarre, Spain, dedicated to promoting support and opportunities for social inclusion, primarily for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, although at TASUBINSA, they also serve people with other types of disabilities. They foster their personal development through occupation and employment, within the framework of defending rights and promoting autonomy and dignity. This is TASUBINSA's mission. In addition, their environmental efforts include solar panel installations, electric vehicle adoption, and campaigns like “Mobilize for the Rainforest,” which promotes mobile phone recycling to protect ecosystems. TASUBINSA directly uses several UN Sustainable Development Goals, including Decent Work and Economic Growth (Goal 8), Reduced Inequalities (Goal 10), Climate Action (Goal 13), and Good Health and Well-Being (Goal 3).
TASUBINSA focuses on employment-centered initiatives, such as “Otoño Laboral”, a program designed to support individuals with disabilities in their transition from active employment to a meaningful retirement. The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good health and well-being, as TASUBINSA promotes support for vulnerable populations and ensures that individuals can retire with purpose and continued well-being. Their innovation also works with environmental sustainability. As Elena shared in the interview, "TASUBINSA is also working on reducing its carbon footprint, which TASUBINSA has been calculating since 2017 and publishing on the TASUBINSA website". Elena states transitioning to cleaner energy sources like "replacing oil boilers with natural gas, replacing lighting with LED systems, and currently working on installing solar panels at our facilities (currently in Beriain and Tudela) and introducing electric or more sustainable vehicles". The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate action, as it is demonstrating a commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting long-term environmental management.
The leaders of TASUBINSA were inspired by the belief that employment could be a powerful pathway to social transformation. Since its founding in 1989, the organization has been guided by a clear vision: to create meaningful opportunities for individuals by adapting the work environment to their needs and strengths. In the interview, Elena shared, "Employment for people with intellectual disabilities is the way to achieve their social and professional inclusion; it goes far beyond simply having a salary. For TASUBINSA, employment is the tool that allows people with intellectual disabilities to have a life plan". This statement reflects the organization's commitment to human rights and personal growth. Ultimately, the leadership behind TASUBINSA is driven by a desire to build a society where every individual, regardless of ability, is seen, valued, and empowered. Their work is not just about employment; it's about creating a culture of respect and purpose for all. Through their innovative practices and strong foundation, TASUBINSA continues to inspire and change societal norms.
In the interview, Elena shared that "TASUBINSA’s share capital is currently composed of ANFAS (78%) and ILUNION Emprende S.L.U. (22%), with 13 centers operating across the Navarre region". This structure reflects a strong foundation of collaboration and shared purpose. Elena emphasized that inclusion is at the heart of TASUBINSA's mission; this commitment is evident in their extensive network of partnerships and outreach efforts. TASUBINSA actively collaborates with schools, city councils, and community associations to raise awareness and promote social inclusion. These partnerships are not limited to local institutions; they also extend to professional groups such as the Navarre and National Police, the Civil Guard, and educators from both schools and universities. Through workshops, joint initiatives, and educational programs, TASUBINSA creates spaces for meaningful conversation and shared learning. Their engagement efforts help foster a more inclusive society by encouraging understanding and active participation across all levels of the community. By involving both public and private partners, TASUBINSA creates a change that goes beyond the workplace. Their approach demonstrates that inclusion is an ongoing process that requires collaboration, education, and advocacy. Their leadership understands that true social transformation happens when everyone, regardless of role, is invited to be part of the solution. Their work continues to inspire others to build communities rooted in respect, equity, and shared responsibility.
Because TASUBINSA prioritized workplace inclusion and adapted job roles to individuals, this organization has achieved significant social and operational impact. It has created employment for over 1,500 people, with 85.5% of them having intellectual or developmental disabilities. This approach has led to remarkable job stability more than 78% of contracts being permanent, fostering a sense of security, belonging, and long-term commitment among the employees. By tailoring each employee's role to their strengths and providing necessary support, TASUBINSA cultivates a work environment where people feel valued and empowered. This not only enhances employee well-being but also boosts productivity and job satisfaction. This demonstrates that when people are given the right tools and opportunities, they thrive, and so does the business. They have also invested in environmental sustainability. The company has begun installing solar panels at its facilities, transitioning to electric vehicles, and replacing outdated systems with energy-efficient alternatives like LED lighting and natural gas heating. These efforts reflect a commitment to reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to climate action.
TASUBINSA’s innovation creates a meaningful change by opening inclusive employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Navarre, Spain. More than just jobs, the organization offers pathways to dignity and active community participation. Each role is thoroughly adapted to strengths, allowing employees to contribute with confidence and purpose. Beyond the workplace, TASUBINSA builds bridges across society. Through partnerships with schools, local governments, and professional organizations, they raise awareness and promote social inclusion, helping to build a more equitable society. Environmentally, TASUBINSA integrates sustainability into its operations by reducing its carbon footprint, installing solar panels, and transitioning to electric vehicles. These initiatives reflect a deep commitment to Sustainable Development Goals, including climate action, good health and well-being, quality education, decent work and economic growth, and lastly reduced inequalities.
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Elena, Management Systems department
TASUBINSA aims to promote the labor and social inclusion of people with intellectual or developmental disabilities. It employs over 1,500 people, with 85% whom have disabilities. In addition to its inclusive employment model, TASUBINSA integrates environmental sustainability into its operations through initiatives such as solar panel installations, transitioning to electric vehicles, and actively reducing its carbon footprint.