ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Given the recent rollbacks of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives, studies show people with disabilities fear this could affect their opportunities and workplace belonging.

A local teenager is working to make sure everyone has a chance to find a paying job.

Miss Georgia’s Teen Carrington Manous is hosting a job fair through her non-profit organization, “Carrington Cares,” on Wednesday, May 7.

The Woodward Academy 11th-grader says the job fair will give opportunities for “students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.” Companies will be hiring on-site and handing out benefits packages to those who attend.

Manous tells Atlanta News First about the reason behind putting the event together, as she too has a developmental difference.

“The whole reason of why I started this job fair is because, as someone who has dyslexia, which is an intellectual disability, I realized how it feels to be overlooked when it comes to jobs or opportunities,” she said. “So, I wanted to make sure that students... all across Georgia have the same opportunities as people without those disabilities.”

“Carrington Cares” is partnering with Atlanta Gas Light to host the event says the event is for students, but it is open to anyone who wishes to come.

Manous recently placed top 10 for the Miss America’s Teen and received the fitness award. With only another month left as titleholder of Miss Georgia’s Teen, she says she will continue to “fight for everyone’s inclusion.”

The job fair will take place at the Interactive College of Technology in Chamblee from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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