A Leader Like Me: Building a Culture of Inclusivity

Inclusion work is not about flags, food, and fun. It's about execution, strategies, tactics, and most importantly, impact. Let's move beyond performative gestures and dive into the real conversations that drive change. 
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In this episode, Priya and Advita, co-founders of A Leader Like Me are joined by Dr. Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey, a leading expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
Dr. Jonathan is a speaker, broadcaster, and inclusion advocate, he holds a PhD from the London School of Economics, infusing academic precision into his work. Dr. Jonathan's evidence-based approach, fueled by captivating case studies and global perspectives, is the key to building inclusive organizations where everyone thrives. 
Uncover the truth about unconscious bias training, the pitfalls of performative gestures, and the critical importance of evidence-based inclusion
During the episode, Dr. Jonathan highlighted the importance of evidence-based inclusion, emphasizing the need to move beyond generic solutions and understand how diversity uniquely matters to each organization.
 
Join us as we challenge the norms and explore the real impact of diversity initiatives.
 
Tune in to be inspired and informed!
 
Connect with Dr. Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey on LinkedIn  
Or visit: elementofinclusion.com/ 
Read also: So Good They Can't Ignore You  by Cal Newport.
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Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Order from
 
https://www.koganpage.com/ 
 
Discount Code ALLME20
 
The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 
Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.
 
Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.
 
https://www.koganpage.com/product/building-a-culture-of-inclusivity-9781398610392 
Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:
 
https://aleaderlikeme.com/
 
Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com 
 
For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.
 
If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.
 
Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

"Your DEI strategy should not be some separate thing that sits over here, it should be a light. It should be through the center of your business strategy. It should be touching every single bit of what your business is doing. It should be central to your mission and your vision.
 
- David Blackburn 
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In this episode, Priya and Advita, co-founders of A Leader Like Me are joined by be inspiring, David Blackburn, a senior manager executive with over 25 years of experience in leading all aspects of human resources. David has a diverse career background including financial services, IT, manufacturing, retail and social housing. 
 
Discover how to navigate the challenges of ownership, build strong partnerships, and create an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive. David's thought-provoking insights will leave you inspired to lead with kindness, empathy, and a commitment to unlocking the potential of those around you.
 
Listen in to learn about the ever-evolving landscape of diversity, equity and inclusion, how it impacts organizations across different sectors, and why this journey might be longer than we initially thought.
 
Tune in to be inspired and informed!
 
Connect with David Blackburn on LinkedIn
 
Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Order from
 
https://www.koganpage.com/ 
 
Discount Code ALLME20
 
The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 
Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.
 
Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.
 
https://www.koganpage.com/product/building-a-culture-of-inclusivity-9781398610392 
Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:
 
https://aleaderlikeme.com/
 
Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com 
 
For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.
 
If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.
 
Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

"Yes, we want equality, but the world is not equal. For us to get to equality, you need to go through equitable practices."
- Nene Molefi  
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In this episode, Priya and Advita are joined by the three co-authors of The Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Benchmarks: Standards for Organizations Around the World, Nene Molefi, Julie O’Mara, and Alan Richter, PhD
 
Listen in to learn about the ever-evolving landscape of diversity, equity and inclusion, how it impacts organizations across different sectors, and why this journey might be longer than we initially thought.
Don't miss this opportunity to understand the driving force behind the GDEIB and the ongoing push for inclusive excellence. 
 
Dive into a captivating conversation that unveils the powerful journey towards Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. In this enlightening dialogue, our guests discuss the value of the Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Benchmarks (GDEIB) and their impact on organizations worldwide. They explore why the GDEIB has gained significant recognition and how it serves as a pivotal tool for assessing DEI strategies.
 
Tune in to be inspired and informed!
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GDEIB is a phenomenal guide for what could be the greatest systemic transformation of work in this century.  
Learn more about the GDEIB
 
Connect with our guests:
 
 Julie O'Mara LinkedIn
 
Alan Richter LinkedIn 
 
Nene Molefi LinkedIn 
 
Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Order from
 
https://www.koganpage.com/ 
 
Discount Code ALLME20
 
The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 
Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.
 
Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.
 
https://www.koganpage.com/product/building-a-culture-of-inclusivity-9781398610392 
Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:
 
https://aleaderlikeme.com/
Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com 
 
For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.
 
If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.
 
Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

"'When we know our why, then we feel less the how.' If I know why this is important, why it's important for my organization, when I can connect, sit not simply with the business imperative, which is clear and proven, but also the moral imperative, when I know why, there is nothing that will stop me, I will find a way through."
 
- Sharon Amesu 
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In this episode, Priya and Advita are joined by Sharon Amesu, an exceptional advocate for inclusion with a background as a successful criminal barrister for 16 years.
 
Sharon, a multi-award-winning motivational speaker, executive coach and leadership enthusiast, shares insights into the challenges leaders face in creating more inclusive workplaces and offers a compelling perspective on equity versus equality.
 
Her work with "She Leads for Legacy," a community focused on accelerating black women into leadership positions, highlights the importance of allies in driving positive change.
 
Get ready for a thought-provoking conversation on the why behind inclusion and the path to a more equitable world.
 
Want to learn more about Sharon?
Visit sharonamesu.co.uk/ 
Connect via LinkedIn 
 
Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Order from
 
https://www.koganpage.com/ 
 
Discount Code ALLME20
 
The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 
Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.
 
Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.
 
https://www.koganpage.com/product/building-a-culture-of-inclusivity-9781398610392 
Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:
 
https://aleaderlikeme.com/
Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com 
 
For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.
 
If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.
 
Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

*I think a safe space.(for active communication) that is maintained by leaders and where leaders aren't afraid to apologize, or to stand back and listen, rather than to decree… maintains itself to a degree, and that sometimes the lines get crossed but people will often pull themselves back by themselves without needing to be corrected or admonished.* 
 
In this episode, Priya and Advita are joined by Matthew Burgess, Principal Consultant at Work Networks. 
Get ready to embark on a captivating journey as we dive into the dynamic world of technology, human connection, and the power of inclusion.
 
Together, we'll unravel the secrets of breaking out of our echo chambers and nurturing authentic conversations in a tech-driven world. 
 
So, don't miss out on this thought-provoking episode where we explore the intriguing dance between technology and human interaction, and how it's shaping the future of work. 
 
Want to learn more about Work Networks? Visit www.worknetworks.co.uk/
 
You can also connect with Matthew Burgess via LinkedIn
 
___ 
 
Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Order from
 
https://www.koganpage.com/
 
Discount Code ALLME20
 
The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 
Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.
 
Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.
 
https://www.koganpage.com/product/building-a-culture-of-inclusivity-9781398610392  
Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the DEI? Visit our website to learn more:
 
https://aleaderlikeme.com/
Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com 
 
For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme
 
If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.
 
Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

"I think on the whole, it's a good idea, especially for the big brands to get that voice out there and get those voices represented and heard and to bring that awareness because of the influence that these big brands can have.... And I'd be really interested to see how some of the bigger brands tackle more representation beyond the most obvious ones."
Vardeep Edwards
In this episode, Advita Patel and Priya Bates, Co-founders of A Leader Like Me, host the fabulous Vardeep Edwards, founder of the Branding Fox. 
Vardeep shares her journey from graphic design to branding and discusses the importance of brand strategy. They explore the significance of colour choices in branding and how it reflects one's personality. 
 
The conversation also delves into representation in creative fields, with Vardeep sharing her experience as a female founder of South Asian heritage. They touch on the changing landscape of careers and the importance of authentic brand purpose. 
 
Listen in for insights on branding, authenticity, and the evolving expectations of the younger generations.
 
A note from Vardeep Edwards:
Hi, I’m Vardeep Edwards and I run The Branding Fox where I help ambitious founders and purpose-led organisations transform their brands into powerful and memorable identities.
 
Our branding studio helps small businesses to create compelling, cohesive brands that drive growth and attract their target customers. With our expertise in branding strategy, design, and creativity, we'll work with you to develop a unique, authentic brand that stands out in your industry and makes an impact. Our team will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your brand accurately reflects your business and its values, and we'll provide ongoing support to help you bring your brand to life across all marketing channels. Partner with us to elevate your brand and drive long-term success.
 
I am also due to launch a new podcast with Rupa Bharadva to celebrate and champion diverse women, who are smashing it in their businesses. As creative business owners, we've found that we don't often see women like us on podcasts, in magazines and speaking at events, which is a real shame as we know these women definitely exist! In each episode, we will speak to a female founder about the story behind their business. We explore their inspirations; the challenges they’ve faced and how they’ve dealt with them; and, we talk about what they’re yet to achieve.
 
The Branding Fox 
Vardeep Edwards | LinkedIn 
Vardeep | Branding Specialist (@thebrandingfox) • Instagram photos and videos 
Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Order from
 
https://www.koganpage.com/
 
Discount Code ALLME20
 
The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 
Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.
 
Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.
 
https://www.koganpage.com/product/building-a-culture-of-inclusivity-9781398610392 
Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:
 
https://aleaderlikeme.com/
Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com
 
For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.
 
If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.
 
Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

"Understanding your audience, knowing the business case for what you're talking about and using the language for whom you're talking to, that's a recipe for success."
- Zahid Mubarik CEO of HR Metrics
In this episode Priya Bates and Advita Patel, co-founders of A Leader Like Me, sit down with Zahid Mubarak, CEO of HR Metrics, an internationally acclaimed thinker, writer, speaker, thought leader and influencer on human capital development with the goal of helping people unleash their potential.
 
During the episode, they delve into the world of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and how communication professionals can play a pivotal role in fostering inclusivity within organizations. Zahid brings his expertise in HR metrics and global standards to the conversation, emphasizing the importance of measuring DEI efforts to demonstrate their impact.
 
The episode explores various facets of DEI, including its evolution, global perspectives, and how organizations can effectively communicate their commitment to diversity and inclusion. Zahid's insights shed light on how to navigate DEI challenges, engage stakeholders, and align HR strategies with broader business objectives.
Listen to the full episode to learn more about the inspiring work Zahid has been doing in the DEI space 
 
Want to learn more about HR metrics? 
Visit Thehrmetrics.com
 
Stay in touch with Zahid at Zahid Mubarik  
 
Learn more about The GDEIB  Standard
 
Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Order from:
 
https://www.koganpage.com/
 
Discount Code ALLME20
 
The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc... and in some physical ones as well. 
 
Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.
 
Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.
 
https://www.koganpage.com/product/building-a-culture-of-inclusivity-9781398610392 
Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:
 
https://aleaderlikeme.com/
Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com
 
For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.
 
If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.
 
Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

"But allyship is something that's very actionable that you can do... It's sit down at the table, reach out, get to know people who look and experience different things than you do... You have to start somewhere with that understanding of another person's perspective. And then using the platform or the opportunities or the access that you have to increase those opportunities for others."
 
In our first episode of Amplifying Diverse Voices season 3, we were joined by Ann Melinger, the CEO of Brilliant Ink. Ann and her team partner with companies to assess and improve their workplace experience. 
 
During this episode talked with Ann about the incredible work she and her team are doing. We also discussed the importance of inclusive language and defined what Allyship means
 
We've also mentioned the DEI guide to inclusive communication which is offered for free by Brilliant Ink and includes some best practices, principles and recommendations for inclusive language use and communication. 
 
Want to learn more about Brilliant Ink's workor stay in touch with Ann? 
Visit https://brilliantink.com/
Or find Ann on LinkedIn: Ann Melinger
 
Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Order from
 
https://www.koganpage.com/
 
Discount Code ALLME20
 
The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 
 
Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.
 
Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.
 
https://www.koganpage.com/product/building-a-culture-of-inclusivity-9781398610392 
 
 
Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:
 
https://aleaderlikeme.com/
 
 
Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com
 
For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.
 
If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.
 
Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.