My New Role - 'Beyond Diversity' An Impactful Strategy

Dear friends

I am thrilled to announce that I have joined Dialogue Social Enterprise (DSE) as the new Chief Operating Officer. DSE empowers people through providing unique experiences that break down barriers and reshape social norms. The business was founded 40 years ago and has since hosted inclusive exhibitions and workshops as well as music and dining events in the dark also giving blind people meaningful work. At the same time, placing sighted people in totally dark spaces to educate them and grow empathy. DSE has been adding new products annually, while spreading messages of disability awareness, diverse leadership and social inclusion. If you'd like to learn more about the work we do at Dialogue Social Enterprise and how we empower people, feel free to visit our website https://www.dialogue-se.com/

For the last 10 years I've been building spaces that celebrate diversity, collaboration and community. Most recently I've helped some amazing businesses create safe spaces and a sense of belonging and purpose at work. However, something was missing for me personally. I wanted to be part of a mission-driven organisation that aligned with my skills and career ambitions. It was that thought that set me on my latest adventure. If you're interested in following my updates or connecting with me, get in touch. Send me a message or connect with me on LinkedIn.

Diversity is the first step

Every journey starts with a single step and diversity is no different as a very important milestone. However, my vision for a better world of work started by looking beyond diversity and building equitable spaces that both include and inspire.

As many of you know, I have worked in hospitality, HR, tech, fashion and coworking. My journey has been a continuous learning and growth experience that has enabled me to develop a passion for creating the new. I've worked in diverse places with an above average number of women, people of colour and openly gay colleagues but it doesn't compare to spaces that include those underrepresented groups and not only tolerated them. My vision and part of my strategy for a better workplace is for everyone to feel valued and appreciated. That means better feedback, meeting culture, equity, collaboration, leadership and more. For me, inclusion isn't a distant goal but a new starting point to help people reach their full potential.

One of my priorities is to build and promote a healthy work culture for people of all backgrounds. People enjoy spaces that are sustainable, communicative, trusting and flexible. I'm a big believer that positive workplaces are the foundation for business success and personal growth.

Insider tip - Working together on common goals builds authentic connection. Passion projects are my formula for creating on and offline community - try them! Teams and groups with a culture of empathy, care and sustainability, enable us to make a positive impact on society.

Taking a sharp turn

Lastly, I want to share how I came to this point in my career path. Perhaps, it will help someone out there to keep on the right track. We don't speak up enough about the power of rest. I did an article for Adidas on the topic and still I was not taking enough of my own advice.

Time off is just as important as working hard. I was so deep in the routine, my head was down and fixed on my vision. Running on autopilot, I forgot to look up and appreciate myself or those around me. Be intentional and unapologetic about your career but not at the expense of your wellbeing and loved ones.

This picture was taken moments after I spoke about modern work and its impact on people. Through the discussion I realised I had been lucky. I had been able to take some time to reconnect with my family, refocus and do some learning after my last role. It was only through this process, that I recognised I desperately needed a break and now I had recharged, I was ready to rejoin the race and support others. Remember you can't pour from an empty cup.

Prioritise rest and rejuvenation so we can not only bring our best selves to work but also be energised for a healthy life.

A deep and heartfelt thank you to everyone out there.

If you found this post interesting or know someone who might benefit from reading it, go ahead and share it with your network. I'm happy to talk about being a COO, building community, DEI, new work, people & culture, personal wellbeing and unconventional career paths.

Best regards,

Alex

Together, we can create a more equitable and inclusive workplace.