Inclusion & Diversity(still)Matter

Welcome to this week's Newsletter! ?? In this edition you can expect:

?? Insights on Sober Inclusivity, is it just a Dry January trend or a year-round necessity? As someone who celebrated their 5 year "soberversary" on Jan the 1st and has been advocating for and championing the need for sober inclusivity at events and experiences, it's important for me that we get better at fostering environments that respect and accommodate diverse choices related to alcohol consumption. Keep reading as we share our tips for more sober inclusive events.

?? Discover how inclusive and safe events make a difference. What are your thoughts on safety policies – would they influence your event attendance? ??

?? Industry News and Opportunities. We share our latest podcast and YouTube videos, awards that up and coming #EventProfs should be apply for (hurry entries close soon) and events you should be attending!

But First..

Did you catch our ?? 12 Days of Bookmas? Christmas just gone, Diversity Alliance shared the top book recommendations from our most popular contributors over the past year. I am an avid reader and have made a pact this year to spend more time doing what I love, which includes reading and some of these books have definitely made it onto my list!

Do you have any book recommendations? Books that inspired action, that improved or even changed your life? If so, do share them in the comments. I'm always looking for more recommendations.

?? Read more about the books that inspired our contributors on our IG account

Hey, did you know that Sober Inclusion can go beyond Dry January? ??

—it should be a commitment to create events that embrace diverse choices and lifestyles all year round. Where to start?

1. Acknowledge Diversity. Sober Inclusivity begins with recognising that individuals may choose not to consume alcohol for various reasons. Our commitment should be to ensure that both social events and workplace gatherings offer a spectrum of beverage options, including enticing non-alcoholic alternatives that get the non drinkers just as excited as the drinkers.

2. Diversify Your Beverage Offerings. It's time to break the mold of offering only water, orange juice or fizzy drinks as non-alcoholic choices. We encourage event planners to curate a thoughtful selection of non-alcoholic drinks that captivate the senses and cater to diverse preferences. Clearly communicate the availability of these options in event promotions and on-site signage, reducing stigma and empowering attendees to make choices aligned with their preferences. Work with venues to ensure this is a non negotiable. (Venue's do better please!)

3. Provide Engaging Activities for All. Sober Inclusivity isn't just about what's in the glass; it's about crafting an environment where everyone feels included. Incorporate engaging activities and entertainment that don't revolve around alcohol. By doing so, we create a welcoming atmosphere where every participant can fully enjoy the event, fostering a sense of inclusivity.

At Diversity Alliance, we believe that embracing Sober Inclusivity is not just a responsibility—it's an opportunity to enhance the collective experience, ensuring that every attendee feels seen, heard, and celebrated. ??

?? Building Inclusive and Safe Events - Why It Matters ??

Safety policies are more than paperwork; they're essential for clarity and trust. Clearly outlining discrimination, sexual harassment, medical assistance, and neurodivergency support measures beforehand establishes transparency and fosters a secure environment. Communication is vital—spread this information across event websites, social media, and direct emails to reach every attendee.

Remember, diverse and inclusive programming isn't a trend; it's a necessity. Actively seek speakers from diverse backgrounds to broaden perspectives and plan discussions that represent varied viewpoints. This not only appeals to a broader audience but also cultivates an atmosphere where everyone feels seen and welcomed.

Implementing robust safety policies goes beyond documentation. Trained staff and security personnel ensure swift responses to concerns and emergencies, creating an environment where attendees feel secure and supported.

Let's make our events not just memorable but truly inclusive and safe, embracing diversity and prioritising the well-being of every participant. ???

If you want to learn more about DE&I to guide you into 2024, you’ll love these podcast episodes...

We continue with highlights from our fave podcast episodes from 2023.

OUT NOW: Challenging Stereotypes, Inclusive Hiring Practices & Career Development | DE&I Insights From 2023 - we feature the thought provoking conversation with Claire Derrick , delving into challenging stereotypes, inclusive hiring practices and supporting career development in all stages of the workplace. In this clip, Claire and I discuss the following -

?? How workplaces can approach more inclusive in hiring practices

?? The importance of supporting career development for all ages in the workplace

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/r0AcaJQtaiA

OUT ON 24th JAN: Accessible Wellbeing Resources & Employee Feedback and Collaboration | DE&I Insights from 2023 - highlights of a conversation with Jenny Okolo ?? where we delve into accessible wellbeing resources, tailored wellbeing initiatives and importance of employee feedback and collaboration. In this clip Jenny and I discuss -

?? How workplaces can implement accessible and inclusive wellbeing resources

?? The importance of tailored support for all employees in the workplace

Watch here: https://youtu.be/iyIhqVPzcO8

LISTEN TO THE FULL DE&I 2023 ROUND-UP PODCAST EPISODE NOW: https://lnk.bio/DiversityAlliance

?? Opportunities ??

I am thrilled to be a judge once again for the The Meetings Show Tomorrow’s Talent award! ?? I can’t wait to dive into the applications and am looking forward to celebrating the fresh minds and dedication shaping our industry’s future! ??

Have you applied? To qualify, the nominee must:- Be based in the UK - Hold a full-time position as a meeting or events planner/buyer - Be aged 30 or under OR have only worked for up to three years in the industry.

Click the link to enter or nominate somebody deserving of this award https://lnkd.in/e-BgaAjP

I am also honoured to be a judge for The CN 30underThirty, delivered by Conference News.

The CN 30underThirty is a young talent scheme to recognise the achievements and potential of exciting event organisers from the conference and meetings industry.

Filled with practical and experiential content, the 12-month programme has been designed to equip successful applicants with new skills, awareness and confidence to further their careers to provide a platform where they can continue to push our industry forward.

Applications are open until 18 January 2024 – find out more about this year’s scheme and how to apply here: https://events.conference-news.co.uk/cn-30underthirty

Lastly, as you may know, I am a mentor on the fantastic Fast Forward 15? programme. Each year the cohort organises a charity event and this years event - ‘Beyond Labels’ - will take place at International Confex

This years charity is the wonderful ‘Newlife' Charity for Disabled Children. Funds will be raised for Newlife, through event ticket sales, sponsorship, a clothing sale and auction.

As the UK’s largest charity provider of specialist disability equipment, Newlife helps children to live their lives to the fullest potential. It offers a lifeline for families, providing life-changing and life-saving specialist equipment when and where it’s needed, as well as support and information through their free Nurse Helpline.

Fiona Robinson, CEO, Newlife, said: “There are now 1.7m disabled and terminally ill children in the UK. Alongside dealing with their disability, the sad fact is that many children don’t have the specialist equipment they really need to help them. As a result, they are missing out on life’s opportunities. Here at Newlife, we help thousands of children to get the essential equipment they need to have the improved quality of life they deserve.”

Support this wonderful programme and NewLife by purchasing tickets to the event HERE

Until next time..