The Employables

The Employables is a heartwarming, inspiring, and enlightening docuseries from A&E Network that first came to the small screen in 2018. The concept of the show is distinctive and innovatively designed to tackle issues often avoided on mainstream television: unemployment amongst individuals diagnosed with neurodivergent conditions such as autism and Tourette Syndrome, and their journeys toward finding meaningful employment. The Employables is extremely powerful, not only showcasing human perseverance and strength, but also gradually altering the societal narrative about neurodivergent individuals and their abilities.

Each episode of The Employables is an hour-long journey into the lives of two job seekers who are determined to show that their diagnoses do not define them. The candidates come from different walks of life, everyone carrying their own unique life stories, experiences, hopes, and dreams. Whether it is a mother eager to return to work or a youngster ready to mark his first employment stint, these individuals are not looking for empathy but for an opportunity to prove themselves. The episodes follow each participant on their path, as they attempt to navigate job interviews, social interactions, and workplace norms, often stumbling but never ceasing to try.

These individuals are not alone in their struggle; they are aided by job coaches and autism or Tourette Syndrome experts who not only help them recognize their strengths and weaknesses, but also train them to harness their unique abilities. The scenes involving the experts offering guidance create some of the most enlightening moments of the series, as they uncloak the hidden potentials of each participant, helping them to see beyond their conditions and perceive their own capabilities.

One significant aspect of the show is the incorporation of medical imaging and graphics. Scans provide the viewers an understanding of the unique functioning of the brains of the participants. This scientific methodology, partnered with expert commentary, makes The Employables not just about the struggle against unemployment, but more importantly, it becomes a medium of awareness and education. The viewers are provided with insight into how different brains operate and how a neurodivergent brain can be just as capable, if not more so, when channeled properly.

As the season progresses, the series transitions from sensitively presenting the challenges these job seekers face to celebrating the participants' abilities, smarts, and unique creativity. This transition is gradually initiated with every episodic victory, whether it is a successful job interview, a significant improvement in social interaction, or an anticipated job offer. Each small achievement witnessed is not just the triumph of a single person, but rather symbolizes a break from stigmatization, a challenge to misconceptions, and a step towards inclusivity.

Throughout the series, viewers are privy to the rawest moments in the lives of these individuals and their families. It’s a journey that elicits a range of emotions, be it desperation, hope, heartbreak, or triumph. The courage and determination of these job seekers, set against a backdrop of societal misconceptions and biases, are both inspiring and humbling.

The Employables not only pushes boundaries in terms of content but also opens up conversations surrounding neurodivergent conditions, the society's understanding of these conditions, and how this can influence the job market. The impact of the series extends beyond its runtime, leaving viewers with a renewed perspective on neurodivergency and enhanced understanding of and respect for the personalities and talents that these individuals possess.

In a nutshell, The Employables is a powerful attempt at busting the stereotypes surrounding individuals diagnosed with neurodivergent conditions. It is not just a TV show but a platform where such brave individuals prove to the world that their talent and abilities are not limited by their conditions. Every episode of The Employables is a nudge towards understanding, acceptance, and most of all, change.