How accessibility in the workplace is evolving

Making spaces and technologies work better, facilitating access, easing tasks, and reducing costs for people of different abilities are critical goals for many organizations who strive to create more inclusive workplaces – but more importantly, for the more than one-in-five (22%) Canadians living with a disability.

Companies like Amazon have their own affinity group for employees with disabilities and aims to build a community that supports employees and customers who have mental/physical disabilities.

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Amazon Prime will cost a bit more in Canada

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We've managed to escape Amazon Prime price hikes since it became available in 2013. But that isn't the case anymore. The $8 per month rate will now cost $10, and the $79 per year will now cost $99. Existing users will see the price jump next month after May 13, while new subscribers will pay this higher fee immediately. 

According to the company, the price hike is because it "continues to invest heavily in Prime," including a more comprehensive product selection and the introduction earlier this year of free one-day shipping on items in most Canadian cities without a minimum purchase requirement. The subscription also includes access to its video streaming service, music, e-books, and gaming options. Amazon has been aggressively spending on its movies and TV shows, so it's unsurprising it's starting to ask customers to pay up.

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Amazon to postpone Prime Day in Canada, India due to rising COVID-19 cases

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Amazon has recently announced it would pause Prime Day here and India as the countries face the worsening spread of COVID-19. The two-day discount event doesn't have a rescheduled day yet for either country. 

Last month, Canada's COVID-19 infection rates overtook the US for the first time since the pandemic began. The country has also been facing lagging vaccination rates. India is experiencing an even more devastating rise, with the country accounting for 46% of new COVID cases worldwide in the past week.

Outside of the two nations, Amazon will bring Prime Day back. But instead of it taking place in July, Amazon will hold it in June.

Source: CNBC

Amazon Canada and The Walrus announce 45th Annual First Novel Award shortlist of nominees

If looking for a hidden star in the literary world is something you fancy then you may be interested in today's shortlist of nominees announcement for the 45th Annual First Novel Award from Amazon Canada and The Walrus. The award was created to honour the achievements of Canadian authors and their debut novels.

This year’s shortlist of authors will each receive $6,000 and the winner will receive the grand prize of $60,000 in cash. The winner will be announced on Thursday, May 27, 2021 via virtual ceremony hosted by Jennifer Hollett, the executive director of The Walrus and will include Lawrence Hill as the special guest speaker.

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