Mohammed Akram charts his own path at Amazon

During the pandemic, Mohammed Akram, an entrepreneur, was forced to shut the business he ran for seven years. But, moving on to the next stage of his career wasn’t simple.

Akram was born with low vision. Before Amazon, he had already quit a job that didn’t support a person with his condition.

Let’s hear from Akram about how he joined Amazon as a Person with Disability (PwD) and how the supportive environment at Amazon enabled him to exceed expectations from Day 1.

Please start by telling us a bit about yourself.

Hello, I’m Mohammad Akram.? I was born with low vision and spent a lot of my childhood trying to improve my condition. However, doctors couldn't do anything in my case. But, I was determined not to let my diagnosis dictate my future.

I attended a mainstream school where I was a consistent top performer. I ran my own business for seven years. However, I had to close it during the pandemic. I was at a loss about the next step of my career.

I moved to Bangalore in search of new opportunities. But, my low vision and long hours at a desk-bound IT job did not mix. When I did land a job, I was the only person with visual impairment on the company’s roster. My diagnosis overshadowed my performance and even everyday interactions. I was forced to quit as I was not given the support that I needed.

When my partner started working for Amazon last year, she was pleased by Amazon's work culture and its PwD accommodation policy. She referred me to an opportunity under the PwD category. Throughout the hiring process, I was pleasantly surprised at how thoughtful accommodations were made. The panel was very understanding about my condition. I had a virtual interview and I was selected. I now have an amazing team in Business Development. I scout and enroll new sellers in?Amazon Business Advisory programs such as Pragati, ABA, Sangam, etc. I also address seller queries and provide the best resolutions according to Amazon SOPs.

The best part is that the team values my efforts and has gone above and beyond to help me continue my work. I have a special screen in the office and also have WFH privileges. I am impressed and grateful to Amazon for their support and guidance.

Can you give examples of how you felt supported and included in the workplace culture?

I saw Amazon’s PwD policy in action when the entire setup at the office was duplicated at my home complete with an ergonomic table and chair.? This was on top of the accessibility tools I needed to read my computer screen and audio-only training materials for knowledge transfer that were provided at the office. Amazon went above and beyond to support and set me up for success.

Once I started my role, I was treated equally. My colleagues and mentors provide the right support, guidance, and a positive competitive environment. This has helped me enhance my mental and emotional health, particularly after the poor experience in my previous job. My tenure here has been deeply fulfilling.

Even deeply fulfilling jobs can be stressful, how do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

I focus on two things - time management and team building.

My team is empathetic about my condition and I know they will have my back. I make it a point to socialize with them, it has improved my self-confidence and my work.? Effective time management during my workday protects the time I need to focus on my family, wellness, and mental health.?

Mohammed Akram has never let low vision get in the way of living his life. At Amazon, Akram charts his own path.

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