TRI Be Yourself Spotlight: Meet Rita Yau

Today is International Women’s Day, a global day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women worldwide.??

This International Women’s Day, TRI is excited to feature Rita Yau, PHR for our next TRI Be Yourself Spotlight.??

Rita Yau

What do you do at TRI?

I am the Head of People & Culture and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at TRI.

What do you love most about what you do?

My role allows me to make a meaningful impact in the workplace. I get to amplify the voices of others and help create a culture that allows every team member to feel safe to bring their true, authentic selves to work. And, true to my title, I love the people. I value the opportunity to interact with all different individuals throughout the business, learn about the exciting projects they are working on, mentor them, and help them navigate various situations, and I get to build a deep connection with my TRI colleagues.?

How does TRI approach and think about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion? How do you make sure TRI is a welcoming and safe place to work for everyone?

Embrace Diversity is one of TRI’s values. We are a company filled with people from different backgrounds, education, cultures, etc. TRI is constantly looking to find ways to build a more equitable and inclusive environment and embrace one another’s differences. From recruiting candidates, partnerships with universities, to sponsorships with outside organizations, we look for opportunities that help TRI continuously learn and grow. In addition, we have six employee resource groups that support our employees and offer community support, career development, conferences, etc. By supporting our employees holistically, it helps them be more present in their work.?

I lead with intentionality and show up as my full authentic self in hopes that it allows others to feel comfortable doing the same. Because I am willing to be vulnerable (whether that be sharing something personal about myself, owning up to mistakes, or acknowledging I do not know it all), I think this, along with how I show up in my work, resonates with others and allows people to feel that they can trust me.??

March 8th is International Women’s Day, which celebrates the achievements women made throughout history. What does this day mean to you?

I love celebrating the achievements and accomplishments of those around me, especially women. It is very important to be allies to one another and create a community that lifts each other up. It has not been an easy road to where we are today, and as women, we tend to put others before ourselves, so having a dedicated day around the world that celebrates all that women have achieved and continue to achieve is incredibly powerful and significant.???

Who are some women who have influenced your life?

Many incredible women have inspired and influenced me to be the woman I am today, including:

• My maternal grandmother. She fled China in 1949 during the Chinese Civil War with minimal belongings and started a new life with my grandfather in Taiwan. She was uneducated but managed to provide a loving home for my mother and my uncle. I believe I got my tenacity from her.
• My mom has always pushed me to be an independent, strong woman and constantly cheered me on to be the best version of myself. I benefited from so many opportunities at a young age because of her countless sacrifices.
• My older sister has always been a voice of reason for me and helps me process my thoughts.
• Though not yet women, my two daughters. Through their curiosity, tenacity, and spunk, they are constantly pushing me to grow and be a better mother and person.
• My fellow female friends and colleagues. I am constantly learning from them and they help shape me to be a better leader, friend, mother, wife, and daughter.

What advice would you give to a young woman starting her career?

My first advice is to lead with integrity. I am honest with my colleagues and I expect the same from them. Without honesty, it is difficult to build trust and nurture a relationship with another person. Secondly, learn what your strengths are, refine them, and leverage them. When you are confident in yourself, it will shine and others will be drawn to it. Also, do not be afraid to be you. We are all different, and differences are what make the workplace more colorful and fun. Last but certainly not least, perseverance will take you far in your career. Keep pushing, performing, and showing up. It will pay off.

What do you like to do for fun?

I am very active and love to be outdoors (hiking, running, walking, biking) with my husband, two daughters, and our dog. I also love to bake (I make a killer chocolate cake - you can find some photos on Instagram at the_sweetestbite), travel and eat (always looking for new places to try).