This week, Homerton hosted thought leadership about the future of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion).
@black_talent_leadership._ and @homertonchangemakers ran a symposium on reimagining DEI, in an era when politicians are busy dismantling the civil rights gains of the last six decades and more.
This event followed one last October on 'the DEI backlash.'
Organiser Olu Orugboh, Black Talent & Leadership in STEM, said: "The UK needs innovation to drive economic growth. This needs to be underpinned by an enabling culture within organisations. Research shows that diversity increases profitability, and drives innovation. Yet we are seeing some scrap efforts to diversify their workforce.
"We cannot underestimate the significance of this time. Short term knee-jerk reactions won't cut it; that comes with significant long term risk. We must continue to promote good business practice and not be tempted to row back on initiatives which enable people to bring their best selves to work."
Dr Alison Wood, Academic Director Homerton Changemakers, said: "I think we're in a moment where the world is demanding that we think what diversity, equity, and inclusion really means."
Orugboh was joined by Neil Dickins, chair of the UK Electronic Skills Foundation (UKESF); Edward Odofin, Acting Head of Business Continuity and Resilience at the BBC; Sarah Minor-Massy, Director of Workforce Transformation at PwC; Kathryn Chapman, Director of Innovate Cambridge; Matthew Potter, an employment lawyer at Howes Percival LLP; Lee Cortez, Head of Global Benefits and HR Programs at Block; and others.
