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Innovative Seminar by Leverages: Using VR to Promote Diversity and Inclusion

On February 25, 2023, Leverages Co., Ltd., through its work support service for individuals with disabilities called Worklear, hosted an experimental seminar titled "Experiencing 'Invisible Disabilities' through VR - What is Needed is 'Reasonable' Adjustment." This event marks an important initiative in advance of the legal employment rate increase set to take effect in July 2026, which will elevate the rate from 2.5% to 2.7%.

Event Overview

The seminar attracted HR representatives from companies struggling with various challenges related to promoting and integrating employees with disabilities. The event was structured in two parts. The first half allowed participants to engage in a virtual reality (VR) experience simulating the characteristics of developmental disorders. The second half featured an explanation of the differences in perceptions by employees who identify as neurodiverse, highlighting specific initiatives undertaken by Leverages, followed by a workshop.

During the first half, all participants donned VR goggles, immersing themselves in the daily challenges faced by individuals with developmental disorders, such as visual and auditory sensitivities, as well as the unique perspectives of individuals with ADHD. The experience underscored the previously unseen difficulties many individuals encounter at work. Attendees shared reflective comments, expressing sentiments such as, "I didn’t realize how much stress they endure at work," and "What I thought was a lack of effort was actually a systemic problem." The atmosphere was filled with a profound sense of awareness and understanding.



In the second half, the seminar featured a presentation by Hamazumi, a leader at Leverages who also grapples with particular disabilities. He contextualized why miscommunications might arise when instructions are vague and confusing. He visually demonstrated how vague directions can trigger panic in the brain. Following this, the participants engaged in group discussions, brainstorming effective solutions to these barriers. The focus shifted from mere kindness to a logical approach to environmental adjustments in the workplace.

Sharing Effective Strategies

The seminar also highlighted Leverages' robust framework for supporting the employment of individuals with disabilities. Approximately 180 employees with mental and developmental disabilities contribute significantly to the company, which boasts nearly double the industry-standard retention rate of 90%. This framework allows Leverages to manage more than 120 diverse business operations, thus enhancing overall productivity and effectiveness within the organization. The audience took note of these proven methodologies, eager to implement them within their organizations.



Towards the end of the event, participants were cautioned about the potential risks associated with the VR experiences. It was emphasized that the world experienced through VR represents just one example; individual characteristics can vary widely. Relying solely on these VR insights to determine support strategies could lead to misalignment. The critical takeaway was shifting from sympathy to asking, "What kinds of adjustments does this individual require?" and recognizing the importance of customizing environments to meet diverse needs. The event concluded with this powerful message, emphasizing the need for mindful adaptation rather than generalized assumptions.

Comments from Leverages

Tsuru, the head of Worklear, shared insights on the importance of employing individuals with mental and developmental disabilities as the legal employment rate rises in July 2026. He expressed that there often exists a vague anxiety about how to engage with these individuals, which has led to hesitance in hiring and early turnover rates. This seminar was organized to help reshape these perceptions and encourage understanding through the experiential lens of VR.

"Witnessing the shocked expressions of participants removing their VR headsets and hearing discussions such as, 'this is feasible in our own company,' made me realize the significant impact of this training," Tsuru noted.

Leverages aims not just to restrict capabilities due to disability but to foster an environment where flexibility and adjustment can unleash the potential of individuals. The emphasis lies in transforming perceived limitations into organizational strengths. The company is committed to sharing these techniques to evolve perceptions of employment for individuals with disabilities from a protective obligation into a valuable asset for businesses, driving growth and engagement.

For more information about Worklear, visit Worklear.

Background of the Event

As noted, the legal employment rate for individuals with disabilities in Japan is set to rise to 2.7% in July 2026. However, a significant mismatch exists in the current hiring context. While the number of job applications from individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities remains stable or declining, the number for those with mental disabilities has surged. Data shows that roughly half of companies wishing to hire individuals with physical disabilities lack alignment with the emerging reality of mental and developmental disorders.

This seminar is just one of Leverages' efforts to address the ambiguities surrounding these employment practices, aiming to shift perceptions and enhance workplace environments. Leverages provides numerous opportunities for cooperative discussions between employers and employees with disabilities through practical frameworks that create a more inclusive workforce.

Sources:
1. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (2025) - Annual Report on Disability Employment.
2. Worklear (2026) - Survey on Actual Employment Conditions for Individuals with Disabilities.