The Randstad Foundation has recognized our inclusive employment initiative for people with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities in the hospitality and events sector.
At Gourmet Catering & Eventos, we firmly believe that diversity enriches the workplace. We are proud to announce that we have been honored at the 20th Edition of the Randstad Foundation Awards 2025, winning in the SME category for Employment Inclusion of People with Disabilities. This award highlights the impact of our inclusive employment project, which integrates young individuals with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities into real working environments in catering and event services.
Randstad Foundation Awards: Shining a Light on Social Impact Projects
The 20th Randstad Foundation Awards celebrated companies, organizations, and individuals committed to promoting equal opportunities in the workplace. Out of nearly 200 entries, our initiative was chosen as one of the 20 finalists and ultimately received the award during the ceremony held on June 10th at the Royal Tapestry Factory in Madrid.
A Pioneering Project in Inclusive Hospitality
Since 2023, in collaboration with Asindown Valencia, we have developed a training and employment program that offers young people with intellectual disabilities the chance to gain hands-on experience in both kitchen and service roles. These individuals actively participate in our events under equal employment conditions as their peers without disabilities.
This initiative goes beyond creating job opportunities—it showcases the talent, skills, and value that people with disabilities bring to the hospitality industry. It contributes to their autonomy, self-esteem, and professional development.
“Three years ago, this seemed like an impossible challenge. Today, we’re proud to say that young people who never had opportunities due to their disabilities are now working at events as chefs and waitstaff. It’s about giving them the same chances we all had when starting our careers,”
said Roberta Lazzari, Marketing, Communications & CSR Director at Gourmet Catering & Eventos.
A Company with a Social Purpose
At Gourmet Catering & Eventos, we go beyond creating memorable culinary experiences—we are building a business model rooted in inclusion and social impact. This award strengthens our commitment to a fairer future where everyone has the opportunity to contribute their talents.
So far, over 25 young people with disabilities have worked at our events, gaining essential skills and the confidence needed to take the next step toward stable employment in the sector.
“The aim is to become a launchpad for talent, allowing them to combine training with real-world job experience, and eventually transition into permanent roles,” added Lazzari.
“Our colleague Sofía trained last year at La Mare Que Va by Asindown, while working with us at events. Today, she is a proud member of the team at Contrapunto Les Arts, a restaurant managed by Gourmet Catering & Eventos.”
Inclusion, Diversity, and Responsibility: Our Key Ingredients
At Gourmet Catering & Eventos, inclusion is not a one-time action—it’s part of our corporate culture. We are committed to fostering a work environment where everyone, regardless of ability, can grow and thrive under equal conditions.