It is one thing to achieve a diverse workforce in the present and quite another thing entirely to foster a diverse and inclusive workforce that extends into the future, sustained by a positive organizational culture, HR policies and procedures, and skilled leadership. That is the overarching goal of the Top 10 Diversity and Culture Impact Leaders, coupled with making measurable impacts in underrepresented communities. Meeting these goals takes a passionate belief in the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion work, innovative strategies customized to fit the organization, and persistence. The Top 10 leaders' dedication to their work is truly admirable. DiversityCan Magazine is honored to name them because they are the people who overcome all resistance, build positive relationships, and make an impact in so many ways in people’s lives.
Sometimes, when terms like diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are tossed about, the real focus is lost: people. It is not metrics or head counting. The Top 10 leaders are all about people: giving them opportunities, helping them thrive in the workplace, encouraging future leaders in the communities, engaging non-diverse people throughout business units, and, as one leader said, futureproofing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The approaches vary because each organization is at a unique place in the diversity and inclusion journey, but there are some common themes: team building, investing in communities, participative leadership at all organizational levels, and employee voice.

There is much to learn from the Top 10 Diversity and Culture Impact Leaders. They each have decades of experience and are always willing to share their insights. This year, an exciting mix of industries is represented, demonstrating the importance of diversity and inclusion to organizational success through people. Industries represented include pharmaceutical and biotechnology by Lou Strickland at Bayer Canada, banking by Vanesa Lewerentz at BMO, retail by Abhishek Sarathy at Canadian Tire, business management consulting by Pasacal Occean at Deloitte Canada, export by Miguel Simard at Export Development Canada, legal by Shareen Samuels at Gowling WLG, transportation by Karima Hashmani at Metrolinx, electrical communication and utility distribution by Darryl Castellano at Wesco, cosmetics by Mia Talavera at Benefit Cosmetics, and property and casualty insurance by Marc Viola at Definity.

The short bios give readers a brief overview of the excellent work of the Top 10 leaders. There are many “firsts” within their organizations. Some developed the first metrics framework for tracking and accountability, the first global perspective for the DEI initiatives, the first Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), the first benefits enhancements, the first male sponsorships of an ERG for women, the first strategic plan for creating a leadership pipeline for underrepresented job candidates and employees, and the first climate survey for equity, diversity, and inclusion. These 'firsts' are not just milestones for their respective organizations but also significant contributions to the broader field of diversity and inclusion, setting new standards and inspiring others to follow suit. A number of the Top 10 Diversity and Culture Impact Leaders work directly with ERGs to develop ambassadors and give all employees a voice. Some are heavily focused on expanding their ERG programs globally in pursuit of zero barriers to careers. They also extend their reach into communities through sponsorships of conferences, making local investments, and encouraging employees to volunteer their time. All partner with nonprofits and advocacy organizations. They have created safe spaces to promote honest and often challenging conversations because communication is at the heart of their success.

The Top 10 leaders are tireless advocates for all people. Their deep caring for humanity shines through their responses to a nomination questionnaire asking them to describe their successes in the diversity space and their leadership qualities. They are problem solvers, relationship builders, and strategic planners. Each wants to remove existing barriers for diverse people today, but just as importantly, they want them to remain torn down. Anyone working in the diversity space will tell you how easy it is to take steps backward unless there are processes in place to permanently prevent slippage in policies, procedures, operations, and systems. Leadership accountability is crucial, and these leaders are fully supported by their Boards, executives, and senior leaders as they strive to create a culture based on respect for diversity and inclusion.

The readers of DiversityCan Magazine are invited to congratulate the Top 10 Diversity and Culture Impact Leaders. Our staff encourages everyone to read the bios with an open mind about how the ideas and strategies presented are adaptable to various companies across industries. Creating an inclusive world is vital to everyone, and these leaders are making progress one company at a time.