Three Key Lessons from DEI in NI: Untold StoriesEvent: Asking, Checking In, and Sharing Stories

Last week, I had the immense privilege of speaking at DEI in NI: Untold Stories, a remarkable event dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in Northern Ireland. Huge thanks to the powerhouse Rachel Okungbowa and the brilliant team at Equitas for creating such an inspiring space! It’s truly uplifting to witness the power of bringing passionate individuals together to spark real change in our community.

Sharing the stage with amazing leaders like Ross Hompstead, Elaine Atkinson, CPCC, ACC, and Stephen Turkington was an absolute honour. Each of you left a lasting impact, and I’m grateful for the knowledge shared and connections made. A special shoutout goes to our outstanding host, Laura Lavery, whose warmth and insight brought the discussions to life, making everyone feel included and valued. And to the inspirational Laura McClean, your work is making an incredible difference for women in tech, and I’m inspired by your commitment.

It was also fantastic to have Belfast’s Mayor, Micky Murray there, supporting the mission. His presence highlighted how important this work is to our community. The opening panel, featuring the powerful stories of Andrew George, Sylvia Ombati, Jessica Ibarra, and Diane Wabo, truly opened my eyes to the unique challenges faced by people of colour and demonstrated the importance of unity and community in creating a more inclusive society.

My Three Key Takeaways from This Event:

1. We Must Ask the Hard and Uncomfortable Questions

Creating genuine progress in diversity, equity, and inclusion means embracing the courage to face and address challenging questions head-on. Often, these questions touch on deeply rooted beliefs, biases, and structural barriers, making them uncomfortable to address. Yet, without this level of introspection, it’s nearly impossible to gain the full perspective needed to drive meaningful change.

Tackling these difficult conversations is what allows us to build empathy and understanding within our teams and communities. It opens the door to hearing experiences and perspectives that might otherwise go unshared. When we have the bravery to question our own assumptions, we find new pathways toward solutions that benefit everyone.

Ultimately, it’s these honest, sometimes uncomfortable discussions that pave the way for true inclusivity. Asking hard questions is not a one-off event but an ongoing commitment that challenges us to learn, grow, and support each other more effectively.

2. Checking In on Each Other is More Important Than Ever

In our fast-paced lives, it’s all too easy to let moments slip by without truly connecting with those around us. Yet, the importance of regularly checking in on each other cannot be overstated. Creating an inclusive, supportive environment is as much about small, intentional acts of kindness as it is about broader DEI initiatives.

Taking the time to genuinely ask, “How are you really doing?” conveys more than casual politeness. It builds a foundation of trust, demonstrating that we care beyond the surface level. When we check in sincerely, we offer reassurance that everyone’s well-being matters, and we contribute to a culture where individuals feel valued and safe to share their experiences.

In an age where stress and burnout are common, these small moments of empathy help us build stronger bonds as a community. They remind us that inclusion begins with awareness and a willingness to support each other consistently, creating a workplace where everyone feels seen, heard, and encouraged to be themselves.

3. Individual Stories are Powerful Tools for Education and Understanding

The personal stories shared at the event were profoundly moving and enlightening, each one offering an invaluable glimpse into resilience, empathy, and lived experience. Through individual stories, we gain a window into the unique challenges and triumphs that shape people’s lives, often bridging gaps in understanding that facts or figures alone could never address.

Hearing these narratives brings a human element to DEI work, grounding abstract concepts in real experiences that resonate deeply. Stories are not just vehicles for sharing information; they inspire us to connect, reflect, and recognise the nuances of each person's journey. By listening to each other, we are reminded of the strength in diversity and are encouraged to grow together, fostering an environment where every person feels seen and valued.

Ultimately, individual stories are a catalyst for change, offering lessons that inspire us to build a more inclusive society. They encourage us to examine our own perspectives, confront our biases, and act with greater empathy, shaping a world where understanding and mutual respect lead the way.

I am energised by the momentum we’re building and filled with hope that, together, we can make Northern Ireland a better place to live and work for everyone. Here’s to more events like this one, connecting us, inspiring us, and showing us the power of a shared purpose. Thank you to everyone involved in DEI in NI: Untold Stories, and to Rachel and Michael at Equitas for making it possible. Let’s keep the conversations going and create a truly inclusive future.

#DEI #InclusiveLeadership #NorthernIreland #DiversityMatters #CommunityBuilding #Equitas #UntoldStories #BetterTogether #Inclusion #EquityInAction #MakeADifference #WorkplaceInclusion #RepresentationMatters #InspireChange