The Role of the DE&I Practitioner in Today’s New World of Work

DE&I work is a never-ending journey of self-reflection, discovery and education, and when we’re early in that journey, knowing where or how to start can be daunting. Fortunately, Kevin England, subject matter expert in Human Resources and Diversity & Inclusion and Jennifer Brown Consulting Senior Consultant has some answers.

Earlier this year, I spoke with Kevin to discuss JBC’s DEI Foundations course, the first part in a series of programs designed by JBC to help both folks who are just beginning their DEI journey and those who are helping lead others in theirs. The course takes place online over 6 weeks with a mix of both self-paced modules as well as weekly group discussions which Kevin facilitates live. Each cohort is given the opportunity to delve deep into DEI topics like understanding current terminology, defining their own personal DEI story and understanding barriers to inclusion in DEI work. In Kevin’s words, by “learning with and through each other”, participants start to awaken empathy, understanding and curiosity regarding their own and others’ identities, using both professional and personal lenses, and begin to consider how we embrace our stories as well as activate our allyship journey.?

So what exactly is the role of a DEI Practitioner in the new world of work? What can DEI Foundations offer you, as support towards that role??

Kevin likens the role to that of a lifeguard: swimming out into rocky waters to help someone else stay afloat while still staying afloat yourself.? The work can certainly be overwhelming as much as it can be rewarding, and building a strong foundation in ourselves is critical, one step at a time. “We want to make entry into the DEI world “bite-size” - accessible and flexible for exploration.”

The DEI Foundations course offers the opportunity for learners from all backgrounds to identify and overcome common fears that often impede their ability to show up vulnerably with their whole selves, addressing questions that range from “Can everybody do this work?” and “Is everybody entitled to do this work?” to “What is my diversity story?” and “Have I struggled enough to have a seat at this table?” Individuals are encouraged to challenge their own perceived limitations, and begin to develop their expertise, which includes multiple parts of their lived experiences. And on the topic of allyship, Kevin validates the important role we can all play: “You don’t have to have experienced something in order to want to improve it.”?

Begin your journey to activating allyship everyday by joining Kevin in DEI Foundations: Level 1. The next cohort starts this upcoming Monday, February 14th!?