Spotlighting our Alleanza ERG in celebration of Black History Month

It would be an understatement to say that 2023 marks a big milestone for us. This year, we celebrate 10 years of our diversity and inclusion journey. Since the establishment of our Global Diversity & Inclusion Board in 2013, diversity and inclusion have been core to Barilla’s business. We’ve been turning our commitments into definitive action and making real progress toward a more inclusive culture.

A major aspect of our culture transformation has been nurturing and growing our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). Empowering these employee-run, employee-organized groups has been critical to making Barilla a more inclusive community. That’s why we’re thrilled to spotlight members from our Alleanza US ERG today in honor of Black History Month. 

Founded in 2016, Alleanza, which means “Alliance” in Italian, promotes racial and ethnic diversity at Barilla and contributes to an inclusive culture by influencing workplace policies to support Black and Latinx employees, providing insight to HR’s diverse recruiting strategy and engaging in community outreach to positively impact local minority communities.

Let's hear from some of our Alleanza members about their experience in the group!

Marura Lenjo is a Sensory Research Manager who has been with Barilla since 2012. She has been active in Alleanza for over 6 years, joining as a co-leader in 2016.

Marura, why Alleanza is important to you?

"Thanks to Alleanza, I have learned so much about so many topics that I did not know. It has also provided volunteer opportunities and leadership development."

How does Alleanza enhance Barilla’s culture?

"Alleanza provides visibility to the different challenges that people face due to race and/or economic circumstances, which breeds more empathy and also a desire to learn about other people’s experiences."

How Barilla’s culture has changed since you began working at Barilla?

"I have noticed that more employees volunteer (and more often) and are more knowledgeable about culturally specific subjects."

Phyllis Ware is an Administration Specialist on the Logistic Deduction team. She’s been with Barilla since 2017 and has been an Alleanza member for 6 years. 

Phyllis, why Alleanza is important to you?

"I believe Alleanza’s work has opened a door between cultures, by showing we might look different, but we are really all alike, striving for the same thing. I am so blessed to be a part of Alleanza and be able to see firsthand how the ERG imparts African American culture. I am overwhelmed sometimes to see something like this for the next generation, and all they offer and do for them."

Can you tell us more about Barilla’s inclusive culture?

"To work at a place where every person in leadership treats all their employees as equals and does not treat them according to position or title shows how important DEI is to Barilla. I had never heard of an ERG before working at Barilla. It has shown me that times have changed since I started working in the 80s, when people of color were not employed fairly. Until I came to Barilla… I had never been at a company where they make sure that you feel like you are important, and your voice is important regardless of gender, race or education."

DeAnna Henry is a Categories Purchasing Manager that joined Alleanza 3 years ago.

DeAnna, why Alleanza is important to you?

"I’ve found that this group offers opportunities for open dialogue, networking and support. It can be a ‘safe place’ to gather with others who value and understand minority perspectives and those who want to understand more as allies."

Can you tell us your most meaningful Alleanza experience to date?

"When there was racial unrest in our country, Alleanza and Barilla immediately began conversations, support and expressed compassion to EVERYONE. So many people were hurting and confused. The time taken to promote healing and understanding in the workplace was both meaningful and extremely impactful."

Can you tell us more about Barilla's culture overall?

"From day 1 as an individual I’ve felt welcomed at Barilla. The broader reality is that Barilla is welcoming to ALL! The employee mix is very diverse with a multitude of ethnicities and cultures that are recognized and, above all, respected."

Krystle Murry is a Finance Manager who has been with Barilla since 2012. She joined Alleanza in 2019 and has co-led the group since September 2022. 

Krystle, how does Alleanza contribute to Barilla’s culture?

"Alleanza’s events and activities have brought more DEI awareness and engagement to our workplace culture."

Can you tell us the most impactful moment for you?

"One of the most impactful to me was the transparent learning session with members of our leadership team after George Floyd’s death during the height of the pandemic."

Can you share with us some of your favorite moments?

"Two of my favorites were the '2020 Lunch and Learns' showcasing Latin American countries’ rich histories and creating a virtual fine arts gallery to showcase black artists, musicians, and writers during Black History Month in 2022."

Thanks to our colleagues for sharing some meaningful thoughts and experience!