My journey as a change maker in championing racial equality at E.ON Next.

For the last seven years, I’ve been a proud member of the E.ON Energy family. During this time, my passion for fostering positive change has guided my professional journey. This culminated in my role as voluntary Chair of embRace – an Employee Resource Group (ERG) focused on championing racial equality at E.ON UK. It’s a position that not only aligns with my personal convictions, it also embodies my commitment to creating a better future for my son.

From the very start of my time with E.ON Energy, I was struck by the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Throughout my marketing career, I’ve always strived to create compelling narratives, and to connect with diverse audiences. It’s a skill set that proved invaluable as I transitioned into my current role within E.ON Next’s Brand & Marketing team. Here, I am part of a dynamic group, focused on positioning our brand and communicating our values to a broad audience.

The turning point in my career came when I decided to take an active role in championing racial equality within E.ON UK. It was a decision fuelled by my personal experiences, and a desire to create a more inclusive environment for all employees. I wanted to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, had the opportunity to thrive and succeed here.

Becoming Chair of embRace was a significant milestone. As an ERG, embRace is dedicated to promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion within our organisation. Since I took on the role, we have launched several key initiatives:

• Membership Growth: Under my leadership, the embRace network has grown its membership by 19%, reflecting the increasing engagement and commitment from colleagues across the organisation.
• Career Development Programme: In collaboration with the Learning & Development and Diversity & Inclusion teams, we launched E.ON UK's first career development programme specifically targeting ethnically diverse colleagues. This initiative aims to provide tailored support and opportunities for career progression, helping to bridge gaps and promote equality within the company.
• Ambassador Network: We established this to create a safe space for colleagues to discuss any concerns they have within the workplace. Our ambassadors are equipped to provide support and guidance, so all employees feel heard and valued.

My commitment to racial equality is deeply personal. As an Afro-Caribbean female and a parent, I am acutely aware of the challenges my son and his peers will face when they enter the workforce. My son, who has recently completed his GCSEs, represents the next generation that will inherit the world we’re shaping today. It’s my hope that, through my efforts, I’m helping to create a more equitable and just society for him and those like him.

I want him to grow up in a world where diversity is celebrated. Where opportunities are accessible to all, and where he can pursue his dreams without the barriers previous generations faced. It’s this vision that motivates me to continue pushing for change, and to advocate for policies and practices that promote equality.

Throughout this process, E.ON Next has been incredibly supportive. It hasn’t just recognised the importance of diversity and inclusion – it’s also actively encouraged and facilitated my efforts.?

The company’s commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace is borne out in its policies and initiatives. From providing resources and training on diversity and inclusion, to creating platforms for open dialogue, it has demonstrated a genuine dedication to making a positive impact. This supportive environment has empowered me to pursue the kind of initiatives that drive meaningful change.

Moreover, E.ON Next truly recognises the value of employee-led networks, like embRace, in promoting a culture of inclusion. By providing a platform for them to thrive, it shows how it values the voices and contributions of employees. It’s an approach that not only enhances the overall workplace culture. It ensures diversity and inclusion remain integral to the company's mission and values.

As I reflect on my journey within E.ON Next, I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and the support I‘ve been given. My role as Chair of embRace has been both challenging and rewarding. Above all, it’s reinforced my belief in the power of collective action to drive change.

Looking ahead, I’m genuinely excited about the future, and the potential to continue making a difference. With the ongoing support of my employer, I’m confident we can create a more inclusive and equitable workplace – not just for current employees, but for future generations too.