Description

This episode of Eyeway Conversations features Jason Williams, an IT professional from Bangalore who lost his eyesight due to an accident. Jason shares his journey of resilience and transformation, beginning with his initial desire to become an automobile engineer, which was derailed by his vision impairment.

Diagnosed with congenital glaucoma at the age of four, his life changed when, at 14, a football injury led to a series of surgeries that resulted in his loss of vision.
Jason discusses the skills needed to succeed as a business analyst, such as strong communication and people skills. He also opens up about his personal struggles, from losing friends to feeling lost after this life-changing event; but eventually found a path forward through the support of his family and Enable India, an NGO that helped him secure a role in 24/7, an IT company.

Jason discusses how his role as a business analyst evolved in the IT sales sector, explaining that it involves identifying business opportunities and engaging with stakeholders to convert those opportunities into revenue. He emphasizes the importance of communication and people skills in the role. Over time, despite facing challenges, including being seen as a liability by some, he was supported by mentors and managers who believed in his potential.

He shares his experience with companies, noting that leadership played a critical role in his success. Some managers saw him as an asset, while others hesitated due to his disability. His turning point came when he transitioned into sales, where he thrived under leaders who encouraged him to think outside the box. He highlights the support he received from managers like Dhiraj Joba and Sambit Ganguly, who pushed him to realize his full potential.

Show Notes -

1. Understanding the Role of a Business Analyst:

• Differences between a business analyst's role in banking and IT sales sectors.
• Importance of communication and people skills in business analysis.

2. Jason's Vision Loss Journey:

• Early diagnosis with congenital glaucoma.
• Vision loss resulting from a football accident leading to retina detachment and hemorrhage.
• The emotional and physical toll of gradual vision impairment over two years.

3. Career Adjustments After Vision Loss:

• Jason’s dream of becoming an automobile engineer was cut short by his accident.
• His journey through uncertainty after the vision loss and finding purpose through the NGO Enable India.

4. Professional Development:

• Jason’s experience working in IT and sales.
• The rigorous training process at 24/7.
• How leadership and mentorship helped him become self-reliant in the workplace.

5. Personal and Social Challenges:

• Losing friends after his accident but gaining the unwavering support of his parents.
• The impact of family support in helping him continue his education and career.

6. Workplace Inclusion and Leadership:

• Differences in workplace experiences where some managers saw him as an asset, while others viewed him as a liability.
• Jason’s success in the sales department of an IT company, where leadership encouraged him to push boundaries.

Tune in to learn about Jason's career, his thoughts on workplace accommodations for people with disabilities, and his message about persistence and adaptability.