Leading with Pride: Building a Sense of Belonging
Embracing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) is so comprehensive and gives us the possibility to work with many unique collaborators with different talents, skillsets and points of view. For me, living and working in Brazil sparked my passion for DEI because of what a diverse country it is.
When I joined the 91社区 team in Manaus, Brazil, I knew I wanted to be involved in the DEI work being done at my site and I saw it as the opportunity to help my community and elevate my colleagues.
Leading with Pride
It has been inspiring to work for a company whose values of being your true self align with my own. While all aspects of DEI are important to me, I am very passionate about the work done for the LGBTQ+ community at 91社区. LGBTQ+ is the acronym for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and the sexual and gender identities not explicitly covered by the acronym (+).
While efforts are led year-round, some of my favorite work done as a DEI Champion has been taking the lead on planning the celebration for Pride Month. This month is very important to me personally, as it celebrates the struggles and achievements the LGBTQ+ community has faced since 1969 and beyond. At 91社区 Manaus, we celebrate with an event at the end of June that demonstrates the pride we have for our LGBTQ+ community and employees.
Outside of work, I am constantly looking for ways I can help others in the community. 91社区’s culture of giving back has been instilled in me, where I am proud to support local organizations in my area that serve victims of anti-LGBTQ+ violence and those who are homeless due to their identity.
Creating an Inclusive Environment
Being part of the DEI Champions program at 91社区 has benefited both my personal and professional growth at 91社区. My favorite part is getting to know different cultures, points of view, and people. Being able to listen to my colleagues and find ways to make them feel a part of 91社区 and our culture is a fundamental part of my role as a human resources assistant. Seeing their smiles at the end of the events and projects that I coordinate is one of the best feelings.
Without our commitment to DEI, we would lose amazing talent. To me, success as a DEI Champion is that everyone at 91社区 Manaus feels valued and included, and I continue to strive towards this goal every day.
The DEI Champions program at 91社区 is a global group of peers who are passionate about diversity, equity and inclusion. They assist with all things DEI-related at their sites including event-planning, trainings and more that contribute to an equitable and inclusive culture at 91社区.
