Breaking Barriers: Diversity and Inclusion Change Maker Program Launch Event
We recently hosted the launch event for our Diversity and Inclusion Change Maker Program (sponsored by Moneysupermarket) and it was a resounding success!
The event featured a dynamic panel discussion that delved into the topic of social mobility and intersectionality in the workplace and the practical strategies organisations can implement to create better social mobility for their employees. A special thank you to our panellists Frank Starling, Mira Magecha and Linn Frost as well as hosts Atlyn Forde and Lisa Townsend for the insightful discussion on their experiences surrounding the topic.
This event also offered valuable networking opportunities between DEI experts, aspiring changemakers and other like-minded individuals, enabling people to make connections for future collaboration. For those who missed out on coming to our wonderful event, here are some of the key takeaways from the discussion:
Understanding Social Mobility
Social mobility is about an individual’s journey of progress and development, that looks at people with various backgrounds, each with their own unique story. However, it's not solely about ascending the ladder. Everybody has unique life experiences, some of which were not within their control. Recognising that, at every level, people can encounter unconscious biases is crucial.
Imagine this journey as a collective adventure where we appreciate and respect the diverse paths people have walked. It's an opportunity to cultivate understanding and empathy, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued. By acknowledging the impact of unconscious biases on all levels, we can work together to create a more supportive and equitable society, ensuring that the path to progression is open and welcoming for everyone.
Affirmative Action vs Positive Discrimination
Striving for affirmative action over positive discrimination is grounded in a commitment to fostering a truly inclusive and equitable society. Affirmative action recognises the historical and systemic barriers that certain groups have faced, aiming to rectify these disparities by proactively promoting equal opportunities. Unlike positive discrimination, which may unintentionally create divisions, affirmative action seeks to level the playing field without disadvantaging any particular group. It's about dismantling obstacles and ensuring that underrepresented individuals have fair access to opportunities, contributing to the richness and diversity of our collective experiences. Embracing affirmative action not only aligns with principles of fairness and justice but also cultivates a workplace and society where everyone, regardless of background, can thrive and contribute to their fullest potential.
I Don’t Know
"I don't know" is a powerful phrase, especially in the realm of DEI work—and you know what? That's perfectly okay! Embracing the honesty of not knowing things is a vital part of the learning process. It's a nod to humility, acknowledging that there's always room for growth and understanding. We should appreciate the courage it takes to admit uncertainty and encourage each other to ask questions fearlessly. After all, that's the essence of how we expand our knowledge and foster a more inclusive and informed environment.
Employee Resource Groups
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) can be an excellent means for cultivating a sense of belonging and inclusion among your team. These groups aren't just tools; they're the secret sauce that transforms workplaces into communities where every employee feels seen, heard, and valued. ERGs become the bridge that connects individuals, providing a space where unique voices can harmonize and contribute to a diverse and inclusive workplace. In essence, ERGs aren't just about inclusion; they're about creating collaboration and support that makes every member feel like an essential part of something bigger.
Limiting Self Beliefs
Limiting beliefs can really impact your confidence in the workplace and contribute to self-fulfilling prophecies. These beliefs have a way of dimming the bright light of your capabilities, making it critical to recognise and challenge them. Breaking free from these self-imposed barriers enables you to rewrite your narrative and unlock a realm of untapped potential in the workplace.
Challenge Is Good
Embrace the power of challenging the status quo within the workplace. Fearlessly questioning processes and practices is not just a right but a catalyst for progress and transformation. Without the courage to challenge, progress becomes stagnant, and the prospect of meaningful change fades. Your willingness to question the established order is the driving force behind innovation and improvement. In the absence of challenge, there can be no change, and it's through constructive questioning that we pave the way for a dynamic and continually improving professional landscape.
Just Keep Swimming
In our collective mission to bring about positive change in the workplace perseverance becomes our greatest ally. It's vital that we remain steadfast in our commitment to driving DEI initiatives. Progress in this realm is not always immediate and there is often some resistance, but every push for change is a step toward a workplace culture that thrives on equality. By continually pushing for DEI initiatives, we contribute to the ongoing evolution of a workplace that reflects the values of fairness, equity, and respect for all.
Overall the keys to improving DEI in the workplace include listening to your peers and being willing to learn and understand other people’s experiences, as well as having an openness and vulnerability about your own experiences for others to understand you better.
Thank you again to everyone who came to our event. Your support is greatly appreciated, and we hope to host more incredible events.
If you are an aspiring Changemaker and want to gain the tools and skills you need to transform your workplace, sign up for our Diversity and Inclusion Change Maker Program where you’ll be provided with the knowledge and resources to drive impactful change!
