The leading home improvement retailer amplifies its push for more inclusive opportunities in retail
Leading home improvement retailer MR.DIY Philippines proudly celebrated the graduation of its first batch of neurodiverse interns marking a major milestone in the company’s continuing mission to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace.
The Internship for Neurodiverse: Inclusivity Training and Milestone Celebration brought together families, educators, store teams, and MR.DIY executives to honor the interns who successfully completed their 10-week retail internship across MR.DIY stores in Metro Manila.
Launched in partnership with Candent Learning Haus in Parañaque City and Marvelous Minds Tutorial Center in Marikina City, the program bridges the path from internship to employability through a phased approach, equipping neurodiverse youth with valuable work experience in customer service, visual merchandising, and store operations.
In her opening remarks, MR.DIY Philippines’ Head of Legal, Compliance, and Sustainability Atty. Suzie Cu, underscored the heart of the initiative:
“This program is more than a milestone. It’s a movement. A movement toward workplaces that see beyond labels, that value diversity not just in words but in action. At MR.DIY, we are not just compliant—we are compassionate. We are not just inclusive—we are intentional.”
A Two-Way Learning Journey
For MR.DIY’s retail teams, the experience was as enriching as it was transformative.
“Before their arrival, our store operations were steady and reliable—but admittedly routine,” shared Assistant Branch Manager Lloyd John Escuban.
“Since welcoming our interns, the transformation has been remarkable. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to learn have elevated the overall store experience.”
From restocking shelves and arranging displays to assisting customers, the interns not only contributed to smoother operations but also sparked new energy across teams.
A touching moment shared by a store supervisor captured the heart of the journey, as a once-shy intern confidently assisted a customer independently for the first time, earning cheers from the team.
Customers also took notice, and have described the interns as polite, cheerful, and eager to help — embodying MR.DIY’s “people-first” culture.
“Inclusion Is Our Responsibility”
In her message to the interns and their families, MR.DIY Philippines Chief Executive Officer, Roselle B. Andaya amplified the company’s commitment to championing inclusion in retail and beyond.
“At MR.DIY, we believe that inclusion is not just a value — it’s a responsibility. When we open doors for everyone, we don’t just build a stronger company — we build a kinder, more understanding world.”
Building a Scalable, Sustainable Program
MR.DIY Philippines’ Head of Human Resources Mydee David announced that by 2026, the program will be integrated into MR.DIY’s in-house Retail Training Program, ensuring structured support, sustainability, and alignment with the company’s broader talent development strategy.
“We’re here to listen, guide, and grow with our interns,” she shared. “We’re also expanding to Quezon City, Parañaque, and Cavite, opening more opportunities for neurodiverse youth to shine and build confidence in new environments.”
Recognized for Impact and Inclusion
MR.DIY Philippines’ commitment to inclusive retail and neurodiverse empowerment has earned widespread recognition across the region. The Internship for Neurodiverse program, along with the company’s broader DEI efforts, has been honored with multiple prestigious awards:
- Creador’s 2023 ESG Impact Awards – for championing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- 2025 Retail Asia Awards – ESG Initiative of the Year (Philippines)
- Gold Award, 2025 Inquirer ESG Edge Impact Awards – Social Category: DEI for Pilot Internship Program for Neurodiverse Students
- Asia CEO Awards 2025 – Circle of Excellence Awardee for Diversity Company of the Year
These accolades reflect not just a successful pilot, but a growing movement — one that celebrates ability, nurtures potential, and redefines what inclusive retail can look like.