Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging – the heart of a sustainable and thriving future

Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) are not only essential for people’s wellbeing, but also for the long-term thriving of business and society. Yet, in many organisations, these issues are treated as a separate or siloed process, rather than being integrated into the broader sustainability mindset and strategy.

In this interactive online session, you will explore the profound connection between DEIB and sustainability, based on basic human needs, societal trust and the fact that sustainability outcomes will not happen without DEIB also being achieved. You will gain insight into the importance of creating a culture of wellbeing and resilience in your organisation, by leveraging the power of DEIB for your people and planet.

When: Monday 6th November 2023 at 2pm

Where: online

Presenters:

• Maretha Smit – Chief Executive at Diversity Works
• Saskia Verraes – Director of Impact at Proxima
• Simon Harvey – Director of Sustainable Development at Proxima

Further details:

There is often uncertainty about how issues relating to people’s individual wellbeing and broader social or human rights issues (including diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging – DEIB) fit within the sustainability agenda.  And, even when those issues are recognised within an organisation’s sustainability approach, they are often addressed with a ‘tick-box’ approach, rather than being integrated into efforts to shift mindsets and work programs that reflect authentic commitments to sustainability.

As a result, organisations often fail to capture the benefits and value creation opportunities that arise from a more integrated approach to DEIB issues; as well as limiting the potential of the economy to shape a thriving, cohesive and inclusive society.

This interactive session will offer expertise to unpick these issues and draw upon participants’ own experiences, challenges and barriers to identify guiding principles for solutions. 

The session will cover:

• The business case for and benefits of successful diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging programmes
• Basic science underpinning principles relating to social sustainability at an individual and societal level
• Good practice approaches for integrating diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging into organisational sustainability programmes
• The importance of inclusive leadership to shape a healthy and thriving organisational culture

The session will involve:

• A short presentation to set the scene and establish a shared understanding of the issues
• An interactive exercise to understand participants experiences to identify opportunities, challenges and barriers
• A question and answer session with facilitated discussion to dive deeper into the issues

The event is free and a pre-cursor to the Diversity Works Chief Executives breakfast event on 22nd November 2023.