Benji’s Journey to Meaningful Employment at IKEA North York

Benji is a valued and proud member of the IKEA North York team, where he works in the cookware, décor, and rug department. His main role is part of the Back to Shelf (BTS) team, where he returns misplaced items to their proper locations around the store.

Growing Confidence and Skills

Since joining IKEA, Benji has made remarkable progress. He recently celebrated his three-year anniversary on June 6, 2025, marking three years of hard work, learning, and growth. Over time, Benji has shown steady improvement in his confidence, stamina, and mood. His colleagues frequently recognize his hard work and are proud to have him as part of their team!

The Path to Employment

Benji’s journey to IKEA began long before he was officially hired. Through our Life Skills Program, he practiced essential workplace skills such as matching products, stacking items, and navigating the store with a shopping cart. IKEA quickly became a comfortable and motivating environment for him, offering opportunities to build the foundational skills needed for meaningful employment.

Despite initial rejections, Benji and his support team remained determined. They continued to practice at IKEA, developing his confidence and abilities. That persistence paid off when Mike Ward, the CEO of IKEA Canada at the time, recognized Benji’s potential. Mr. Ward offered Benji to be offered paid employment, emphasizing that he deserved equal compensation for performing the same duties as other employees. This decision not only changed Benji’s life but also reinforced IKEA’s mission to “create a better everyday life for the many people” — a principle that includes fostering inclusion and opportunity for all.

A Story of Persistence and Belief

Benji’s success story is a testament to the power of perseverance and advocacy. His journey reminds us that meaningful employment is possible when opportunities are built on ability rather than assumption. By continuing to show up, practice, and demonstrate what he can do, Benji is helping open doors for other individuals with diverse abilities who share the same dreams of purpose and belonging.

Practicing at IKEA before being officially hired gave Benji the chance to gain the confidence needed to thrive. His story continues to inspire his peers and community, showing that with support and an unwavering belief in someone’s potential, real change can happen.

A Proud Member of the IKEA Family

Benji's journey from practicing life skills to thriving as a paid employee reflects not only his personal growth but also the value of inclusive employment. IKEA’s supportive and inclusive workplace culture has allowed Benji to shine, and shows that with the right support, everyone can find their place to belong and succeed.

Embracing Challenges and Learning Every Day

While Benji’s journey at IKEA has been filled with achievements and growth, it’s important to remember that progress isn’t always linear. Some days are harder than others, and tasks that were once mastered may need to be revisited and practiced again. These moments are not setbacks, they are opportunities to rebuild skills and deepen understanding.

Success at work requires patience, perseverance, and careful observation from both Benji and his support team.