Borg-Bouw and A-kwadraat: a successful journey of inclusive employment.

Sometimes, a partnership shows its true value at unexpected moments. For Borg-Bouw from Lille, a family business that carries out high-quality and sustainable construction projects and one of our customers, this happened when one of their employees needed more support than they could offer as a regular company.

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What began as a concerned conversation grew into a warm journey and a new start for Robbe, who now feels completely at home. How did that happen exactly? We spoke with Rikkert, workshop manager at Borg-Bouw, Febe, HR Business Partner at A-kwadraat, and Robbe himself.

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“We want people to be able to grow. Sometimes that means in a new environment” – Febe (HR Business Partner at A-kwadraat)

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"When Borg-Bouw contacted us, their request was immediately clear: 'We want our employee to end up in the right place.' We were touched that a loyal customer wasn't just asking an operational question, but a human one," says Febe. "They saw that Robbe needed more guidance and wanted to avoid him getting stuck at all costs. That shows how people-oriented they are."

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During the first joint meeting, it became clear that Robbe needed structure, close supervision, and a stable working environment. "That's exactly where our expertise lies," says Febe. "Because Rikkert has known our social enterprise for several years now through a good working relationship, everything went very smoothly. It's great to work with a company that doesn't 'pass the buck' but genuinely wants the best for its people."

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“Robbe has talent. He just needed the right environment. – Rikkert (Workshop manager at Borg-Bouw)

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Rikkert also took a sincere look at what Robbe needed. “Robbe first did his ABO internship with us and then three months of holiday work. He was insecure and often doubted himself. We saw his talent, but certain tasks caused him a lot of stress. As an employer, you have to ask yourself whether you can still offer the right support.”

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According to him, the decision to switch to A-kwadraat was not a farewell but a sign of concern. "Robbe deserves good guidance in the workplace. And who better to provide that than A-kwadraat?"

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The transfer took place in close consultation and with a great deal of attention for Robbe. "A-kwadraat is structured and people-oriented at the same time," says Rikkert. "I hope that more companies will adopt this approach: starting from employee happiness and daring to look at where someone can grow the most."

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And Robbe himself? He's beaming.

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“I feel good here.” – Robbe (wood workshop employee)

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"At first, I found it exciting," he says. "Everything was new: the people, the explanations, the workplace. But everyone was very friendly. Now I work in the carpentry shop and am already allowed to help with various machines. I'm starting to know everyone by name and even have a regular spot at the table with my buddy Christophe and two other colleagues. I feel good here."

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This successful process demonstrates what inclusive employment looks like in practice.
"If people can catch their breath here and enjoy coming to work, then we have done the right thing together," concludes Febe.