EBRD's Diversity Week: Highlighting the Power of Intersectionality in the Workplace
October 25, 2023Each year, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) organizes a series of annual events that focus on various topics, ranging from women in the workplace to sustainability efforts. One of these flagship campaigns is Diversity Week, which has gained significant momentum over the past six years. This year's Diversity Week proved to be a resounding success and was hailed as one of the best yet.
Diversity Week at EBRD embraced a wide range of activities designed to accommodate groups of 12 to 250 colleagues. The theme for this year's event was Intersectionality, providing participants with ample opportunities to explore what it truly means to be different in today's world.
EBRD's President, Odile Renaud-Basso, and Hannah Meadley-Roberts, the Managing Director of Human Resources and Organizational Development, actively participated in sessions held for colleagues at EBRD's Resident Offices and Headquarters. These sessions, titled "Unlocking Your Potential," were previously part of the bank's female mentorship program, Minerva. However, for Diversity Week, they were opened up to a wider audience. The workshop-style events fostered interactive discussions and provided valuable insights on how individuals can leverage their achievements to reach their goals.
Additionally, an employee network event was organized for all staff, facilitated by Heike Harmgart, the Managing Director for EBRD's Southern and Eastern Mediterranean region. The event featured an expert panel of speakers who delved into the theme of self-identity. Participants were invited to complete a live poll that asked them to identify three identities they relate to. The results showcased the diverse nature of EBRD as an organization, even within a relatively small sample group.
We spoke with Alicia Heminway who led the organization of Diversity Week at EBRD about the aim of the week.
“During Diversity Week we aim to provide a cross section of events and talks to engage as many as possible in the D&I agenda, to educate, raise awareness and provide tangible actions that each person can take forward into their daily working lives,” she said.
Diversity Week wasn't limited to workshops and panels alone. The demand for Yoga and Taekwondo classes far exceeded expectations, resulting in the establishment of a regular Thursday lunchtime Taekwondo session. Discussions are also underway to introduce more frequent yoga classes at EBRD Headquarters, reflecting the organization's commitment to promoting well-being and physical activities.
Even EBRD's Resident Offices fully embraced the spirit of Diversity Week. A video from the Tunis office showcased colleagues celebrating their diverse and unique heritages. The Turkiye office also announced an upcoming event on LGBTQ+ inclusion, highlighting the importance of inclusivity within the business and local communities.
No Diversity Week would be complete without celebratory events, and this year was no exception. EBRD hosted an annual drinks gathering that saw an astonishing turnout of around 250 staff members. The event celebrated the cultures of the SEMED region, featuring musical performances and traditional delicacies. According to catering colleagues, it was one of the busiest events since EBRD shifted to their new headquarters at Five Bank Street.