By R.V. Baugus
Dr. Julian Maha, M.D, founder and CEO of KultureCity, understands first-hand the importance of inclusivity as he created the world’s first “start-up” non profit when his oldest son was diagnosed as autistic.
Today, Dr. Maha is one of the most in-demand speakers and has presented around the world to all types of major companies and organizations. He will lead a panel discussion at IAVM’s GuestX, February 17-19, in San Diego, on the topic of Inclusive Venue Operations & Accessibility.
Some of the issues and topics that will be addressed at GuestX include ADA law updates from a member of our legal community as well as information on interpreters, closed captioning, nursing guest accommodations, sensory inclusion, wayfinding and much more. Mostly, it is about making sure your venue is inclusive. Looking for the best ways to do that? You will not want to miss Dr. Maha’s session.
Before San Diego, though, Dr. Maha visited with us and answered some questions about the session, about 
inclusion, and what he wishes to accomplish at GuestX to give attendees the best possible knowledge to implement at their venues.
“Inclusion” is a word that is used quite a bit these days. Can you give your definition of the word as it relates to any workplace?
It means everyone has the right to be apart of the workspace regardless of their race, religion, sexual orientation, and ability. Inclusion ensures that not only do they have the right but also given the tools and the right environment to succeed in. By doing this, we create a world where everyone has a chance to be valuable and contributing member of society.
Why up until now was “inclusion” a word not often used but also not often practiced in many organizations?
I think with increased knowledge and also from the ability standpoint the increase in sheer numbers of those with different abilities many organizations have realized that in order to be effective companies they need to learn how to include everyone. This ensures increase productivity and workplace culture, as all these different individuals when included and given the right environment to succeed, add great value to each and every organization.
What will be some of the highlights and items that your panel will cover on the subject matter?
I think the importance of looking beyond the common definition of inclusion and understanding the importance of sensory inclusion. I also think you will take away the many benefits of becoming sensory inclusive not only to the organizations but also the population each organization serves.
Talk some about how KultureCity works with groups to help them become more inclusive.
We provide training, sensory bags, social story building, app integration and also in some cases sensory room design and out fitting. The most importance thing though that we provide is an on going partnership built with the help of individuals on our team that have sensory needs and also trained professionals that are constantly innovating and pushing the envelope to create the best environment for all.
We see we have Imagine Dragons as part of the panel. Please do share!
Daniel Platzman is from the Imagine Dragons. He has a family connection to sensory needs and also was a sensory seeking child, He is a huge advocate for inclusion and overall great guy. He will bring the viewpoint of why a venue should be inclusive from the business standpoint as more and more acts are making their decisions of which venues to perform at based on sensory inclusion.
6What are some main takeaways you would like to leave attendees at your GuestX session before they return to their workplace?
How easy it is to partner with KultureCIty and the many great benefits that you can get not only from the guest experience standpoint but also from the business standpoint.
To register for GuestX, click here.
