Where Thinking Differently Creates Impact

In just six months, India-based Shivam Ayengia, a dedicated member of CBRE’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) global operations team within our Global Workplace Solutions segment, has had the opportunity not only to become a significant individual contributor to CBRE’s inclusive hiring practices, but also to help hire, manage, and mentor a team of interns.

At CBRE, we provide our people with the work environments and tools they need to feel like their most productive selves and realize their potential. Shivam, who was born with cerebral palsy, has quickly gained a reputation for shattering stereotypes and forging his own path within the company, and beyond.

With dual degrees in Computer Science and Engineering, an MBA in Human Resources and a fierce passion for helping underrepresented groups succeed in the workplace, Shivam was uniquely positioned to thrive at CBRE. He has truly come to embody our philosophy that thinking differently creates impact. His impactful work has ranged from providing answers to DE&I-related client account queries and drafting communications for key internal DE&I initiatives, to working on projects poised to shape the future of DE&I at CBRE globally.

One project he found particularly fulfilling was investigating APAC legislation concerning employment for Persons with Disabilities and exploring disability-inclusive hiring platforms, which aligned perfectly with CBRE’s commitment to promoting diversity across all levels and creating inclusive workplaces.

CBRE has also opened the door for Shivam to not just experience, but influence, the recruitment process firsthand—he played an instrumental role in hiring his team’s 2024 summer interns, which involved screening hundreds of applications and translating his HR knowledge and research into action.

“My role at CBRE has also helped me grow as a guide and mentor for young talent. I appreciate the chance to spearhead impactful work, aimed at driving positive change.”

Shivam is determined to break disability stereotypes not just in the workplace, but outside of it too—in his spare time, he is a professional bodybuilder with seven local and international bodybuilding meets and awards to his name.

Despite facing constant adversity and misconceptions due to his disability, Shivam has proven that with determination and an empowering environment like the one he has found at CBRE, you can shatter stereotypes, drive innovation, and realize your potential.

What’s next for Shivam? “I will continue to champion DE&I,” he says, adding that he plans to pursue a PhD focused on the intersection of disability and organizational culture.

Shivam’s passion for promoting inclusivity and breaking down disability stereotypes exemplifies what we stand for at CBRE, where we realize our greatest potential by enabling, valuing and embracing diverse perspectives across multiple dimensions. We feel lucky to call such an exemplar of dedication and innovation one of our own.