Tifton Food Lion empowerment of hearing impaired employee

TIFTON, Ga. – Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic grocer Food Lion is championing inclusivity, by empowering and embracing employees with disabilities.

In Tifton, Georgia, a Food Lion employee named Z’Novia exemplifies the positive impact of the company’s sense of belonging on in-store associates.

Z’Novia, as an individual navigating a hearing impairment, encountered obstacles in promptly addressing customer inquiries and concerns.

“But, I just know working here at Food Lion, I just feel like I really belong here. Because, customers make me feel really special and comfortable here. They work with me. Communicating with customers and my co-workers, I really appreciate them communicating with me being hearing impaired,” said Z’Novia, Food Lion, employee.

In an effort to enhance communication and support, food lion has offers associates the option to wear a branded vest that indicates if one has a hearing impairment. Embracing this initiative, Z’Novia feels a renewed sense of empowerment. She recognizes the significance of these vests in facilitating clearer interactions with customers, ultimately influencing how they approach her for assistance.

Reflecting on her experience prior to acquiring the vest, Z’Novia highlights the impact it has had on her journey at Food Lion.

“Without the vest, I felt kind of low and scared. Because customers would think that I am rude. You know, I’m not rude, it is just that they did not know that I’m hearing impaired. Sometimes they would tap on me, trying to get my attention. One of my coworkers would have to tell the customers that, “sometimes you have to tap on her, because she is hearing impaired.” Then, they would apologize. I tell them don’t apologize, you just did not know. It helps the customers to know that I am hearing impaired. So, that, if they try to get my attention, they can just tap on me to get my attention, and I will help them with whatever they need,” said Z’Novia.

Z’Novia’s story serves as a reminder of the significance of companies like Food Lion prioritizing the creation of environments where every employee feels valued and empowered to thrive in their respective roles.

Z’Novia offers a message to others who may share similar challenges due to a hearing impairment or other disability.

“If they don’t have any vest, I advise them to talk to their supervisor to get them a vest to wear. I’m pretty sure it’s gonna make them really feel comfortable and happy to know that they are hearing impaired. They should not have to be ashamed,” said Z’Novia.

De’Andra Jacobs reporting.

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