Avi 2 I

The Sweet Smell of Success (and the Temptation to Stray) 🍩🏋️♀️ I'm on a personal transformation journey, shedding those extra pounds before the festive season kicks in. 🦃 It's not easy, especially for a self-confessed foodie like me! But I have a plan: daily walks, regular gym sessions, and a whole lot of willpower. The other day, I walked out of the gym, feeling pretty good about myself, only to be confronted by a stall selling the most delicious-smelling treats. 🥐 It was a real test of my resolve! In that moment, I had a choice: give in to temptation or stick to my plan. I chose the latter. 💪 Why? Because I have a clear goal, and I've taken the time to create an action plan to get there. Celebrating those small milestones along the way - like resisting the lure of the pastry stall - keeps me motivated and focused. Now, let's talk about your organisation. Just like my personal fitness journey, achieving your goals around inclusion and customer experience requires a plan and consistent action. Without them, it's easy to get sidetracked or lose sight of what you're trying to achieve. What's the cost of inaction? Missed opportunities to connect with a wider audience. A damaged reputation. Lost revenue. Don't let those tempting distractions derail your progress. What are your goals for creating a more inclusive and customer-centric organisation? Have you created an action plan? Are you celebrating the small wins along the way? Let's talk about how to stay focused and achieve those goals. #actionplanning #goals #inclusion #customerexperience #transformation #progressnotperfection

Look what I saw this weekend... 🤦♀️ I'm fortunate to be able to travel with relative ease and accessibility. But my journey isn't shared by everyone – not because of any physical or mental limitations, but because unfortunately, the infrastructure isn't where it should be. This weekend in London, I was heartened to see progress. The Tube and train platforms were accessible, with people with impaired vision and those using crutches navigating confidently. 👏 It gave me hope that we're moving towards a truly inclusive transport system. But on my walk home, reality hit hard. A gentleman in a motorised wheelchair was forced onto a busy main road because the pavements were too narrow. 🚗😠 Cars honked and flashed their lights at him, frustrated that he was "in the way." He had no other option. How is this inclusive? 🤔 How is this creating a positive experience for everyone? This isn't okay. 🙅♀️ It's not acceptable. If this resonates with you, please leave a comment below. Let's connect and work together to make a change. 💪 We need people who are ready to take action! 🙌 #accessibility #inclusion #publictransport #disabilityrights #LetsMakeAChange

🤔 Was Rachel Gunn's Olympic Breakdancing Performance Cultural Appropriation? 🤔 🇦🇺 Australian breakdancer Rachel Gunn's unique performance at the #Paris2024 Olympics has sparked intense debate. 🔥 Some argue her moves were disrespectful to the origins of breakdancing, rooted in the Black community in America. 🤨 Was this #CulturalAppropriation? Others wonder if her "unconventional" approach was a calculated move to go viral and break the internet. 🤯 A deliberate attempt at controversy for attention? 👀 ➡️ Either way, it raises questions about the fine line between artistic expression and cultural sensitivity. 🤔 🤔 In the workplace, are we unintentionally doing things that make others feel excluded or appropriated? 😬 Or are we deliberately pushing boundaries for personal gain? 😏 🙌 Regardless, prioritising #Inclusion is key to resolving these issues! ❤️ While Rachel is undeniably skilled, her Olympic performance left many wondering if an opportunity was missed, turning the spotlight into a circus show. 🎪 For those dedicated to breakdancing, seeing it "mocked" on a global stage can be devastating. 💔 🤝 Let's foster understanding about #CulturalCompetence, #CulturalInclusion, and #Microaggressions. 🙏 💡 Need support with these critical issues? Avi2i offers training, consultancy, and professional speaking to help create inclusive and respectful workplaces. 🙌 👉 Reach out today to start the conversation! 📧 #Breakdancing #Olympics #Diversity #Respect #LetsTalk 🗣️ 💖 Let's learn and grow together! 🌱 https://lnkd.in/eh7rq-MG

😔 Bystander Intervention Gone Wrong: A Cautionary Tale 😔 Went out for dinner with friends, and one got into a playful exchange with the staff at the bar. 🍻 Suddenly, another customer swoops in to "defend" the staff, assuming disrespect. 🤦♀️ Plot twist: The staff wasn't offended at all! But this well-meaning bystander wouldn't back down, leaving my friend feeling embarrassed and unfairly labeled. 🤔 Here's the thing: Bystander intervention is IMPORTANT, but it needs to be done right. ✅ Pros of Bystander Intervention: Supports those who may be experiencing harm Creates a safer, more inclusive environment Sends a message that disrespectful behavior won't be tolerated ❌ Cons of Bystander Intervention (When Done Poorly): Can escalate situations unnecessarily Can cause harm to those involved, even with good intentions Can create a hostile environment 💡 Key Takeaways: Assess the situation carefully before intervening Consider the perspectives of everyone involved Prioritize the well-being and wishes of the person you're trying to help 🤔 Have you experienced bystander intervention, for better or worse? Share your thoughts below! ⬇️ Let's learn from each other and create a culture of respectful and effective intervention. #BystanderIntervention #Inclusion #Respect #CustomerExperience #Communication ________________________________________ Nzinga here 👍 I help organisations in the travel, tourism, hospitality, and customer sectors transform the experiences of marginalised customers. Through coaching, consultancy, and training, I empower businesses to create inclusive, welcoming environments where everyone feels valued and respected. Ready to elevate your customer experience? 🚀 Book your consultation call here: https://lnkd.in/eTm5U2mD 📧 Email info@avi2i.com

Scrolling through LinkedIn this morning, I stumbled upon some incredible recommendations from a previous client. 😭 Seriously, I was welling up! It's such an honour to work with such amazing people and organisations. 🙌 The projects we tackle together – unpicking the disturbing reality of inequality and exclusion 💔– aren't always easy. But seeing the real-world impact, the positive changes we create together? That's what fuels my passion. 💪 Honestly, hearing how I've helped facilitate transformations and contribute to a better world makes it all worthwhile. 🥰 It's a reminder that I'm on the right path, doing work that truly matters. 💯 And I'm always hungry for more. More opportunities to learn and grow 🌱, to collaborate 🤝, and make an even bigger difference. If you're passionate about inclusion and creating a fairer world, hit me up! 💬 Whether it's a quick chat, a potential project, or just a virtual coffee ☕️ to bounce ideas around, I'm always keen to connect with like-minded people. #Grateful #Collaboration #Inclusion #MakingADifference #OpenToConnect ________________________________________ Nzinga here 👍 I help organisations in the travel, tourism, hospitality, and customer sectors transform the experiences of marginalised customers. Through coaching, consultancy, and training, I empower businesses to create inclusive, welcoming environments where everyone feels valued and respected. Ready to elevate your customer experience? 🚀 Book your consultation call here: https://lnkd.in/eTm5U2mD 📧 Email info@avi2i.com

Down the Aisle: A Journey with Different Meanings. The phrase "taken down the aisle" paints a vivid picture, doesn't it? For some, it's the heartwarming walk towards a loved one on their wedding day 👰🤵, a symbol of love and commitment. For others, it might be the triumphant stroll to receive a diploma 🎓, marking years of hard work and the start of a new chapter. For the everyday shopper, it might simply be navigating the supermarket aisles, seeking out tonight's dinner.🛒 But for many wheelchair users, "being taken down the aisle" evokes a different reality. It's a routine part of air travel ✈️, often filled with anxiety and a loss of independence. Beyond the Aisle: The Passenger Experience While the aisle signifies a pathway to a destination for many, for wheelchair users, it can highlight the barriers we encounter: Dignity and Independence: The act of being physically lifted and transferred can be dehumanizing. We yearn for solutions that allow us to board and disembark on our own terms. Safety Concerns: Transfers can be physically risky, especially in the confined spaces of an aircraft. Communication Barriers: Not all airline staff are adequately trained to understand our unique needs, leading to misunderstandings and unnecessary delays. A Call to Action for Accessible Travel It's time to reimagine the "aisle experience" for wheelchair users. Let's move beyond mere compliance and strive for a travel experience that is truly inclusive: Innovative Boarding Solutions: Explore technologies like self-boarding ramps or lifts that empower independent boarding. Training and Awareness: Educate staff on the diverse needs of passengers with disabilities, fostering empathy and understanding. Collaboration: Partner with disability organizations to co-create solutions that address the real-world challenges we face. Let's make "taken down the aisle" synonymous with a seamless, dignified, and enjoyable journey for everyone. #Accessibility #WheelchairTravel #DisabilityInclusion #AviationIndustry #UniversalDesign #TravelForAll #CustomerExperience ________________________________________ Nzinga here 👍 I help organisations in the travel, tourism, hospitality, and customer sectors transform the experiences of marginalised customers. Through coaching, consultancy, and training, I empower businesses to create inclusive, welcoming environments where everyone feels valued and respected. Ready to elevate your customer experience? 🚀 Book your consultation call here: https://lnkd.in/eTm5U2mD 📧 Email info@avi2i.com

From ROT to RAM: Taking Responsibility, Accountability, and Management of Your Mental Health 🧠 RAM (Responsibility/Accountability/Management) is crucial for everyone, but especially for those working in high-stress sectors like aviation ✈️, transport 🚂, retail 🛍️, and security 👮. The demands of these industries can take their toll on mental well-being, making it even more important to prioritise self-care. When we neglect our mental health in these sectors: ❌ Safety risks increase ⚠️ ❌ Customer service suffers 😔 ❌ Employee turnover rises 🚪 ❌ Productivity plummets 📉 But taking charge of your RAM can lead to: ✅ Improved focus and decision-making 👍 ✅ Increased resilience to stress 💪 ✅ Enhanced customer interactions 😊 ✅ A more positive and supportive work environment 🤝 Here's how to apply RAM to your work: Self-Awareness: Recognise the unique stressors of your industry and how they affect you personally. Seek Support: Utilise resources provided by your employer, such as Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs). Prioritise Self-Care: Schedule regular breaks, practise relaxation techniques, and engage in activities you enjoy outside of work. Build Resilience: Develop healthy coping mechanisms for stress and seek support from colleagues or supervisors. Remember, a healthy workforce is a productive workforce. By prioritising mental health and taking responsibility for your RAM, you'll not only improve your own well-being but also contribute to a safer, more efficient, and more positive workplace. #MentalHealth #RAM #SelfCare #Wellbeing #Resilience #Aviation #Transport #Retail #Security #WorkplaceWellness

The Illusion of Inclusion: Marginalisation Doesn't Equal Equity We often assume marginalised leaders, due to their own experiences, are naturally inclusive. However, this is a dangerous misconception. Many underrepresented leaders perpetuate discriminatory practices, particularly in sectors like aviation. ✈️ Have you ever wondered why some passenger experiences seem consistently overlooked? The answer may lie in the biases of decision-makers, even those from marginalised groups. Being underrepresented doesn't automatically make one unbiased or equitable. In fact, it can sometimes lead to favoring those with similar backgrounds, further marginalising others. Mini Self-Audit for Leaders: 🤔Do I actively seek out and value diverse perspectives? 🤔Am I aware of my own biases and how they might affect my decisions? 🤔Do I create a safe space for everyone to share their ideas and concerns? 🤔Am I committed to ongoing learning and growth in the area of diversity, equity, and inclusion? What can we do? Challenge assumptions: Don't equate marginalisation with automatic allyship. Hold leaders accountable: Demand inclusive practices, regardless of background. Amplify diverse voices: Ensure all perspectives are considered in decision-making. Foster self-awareness: Encourage leaders to examine their own biases. Let's break the cycle of exclusion, starting with ourselves. #DiversityEquityInclusion #Leadership #AviationIndustry #Bias #Discrimination #ChallengeTheStatusQuo What do youthink? Share your thoughts and experiences below. 👇 https://lnkd.in/exjestUt

💼 #UnpackFriday: When Travel Chaos Hits, Who Pays the Real Price? 💼 Picture this: You're stuck at Heathrow, your flight's cancelled, and your luggage is nowhere to be found. Frustrating, right? Now imagine you rely on that luggage for essential medication, or you're travelling with a young child who needs their comfort items. Suddenly, it's not just an inconvenience – it's a crisis. This week's Heathrow chaos, as reported by the Express is a stark reminder that travel disruptions hit marginalised passengers the hardest. Lost luggage isn't just about missing clothes – it's about lost independence, heightened anxiety, and disrupted routines. But it doesn't have to be this way. Imagine a travel industry that prioritises the needs of all passengers: 🎯Proactive Support: Staff trained to identify and assist those who need it most. 🎯Crystal-Clear Communication: Timely updates tailored to individual needs. 🎯Empathy & Understanding: A culture of compassion, not just frustration. 🎯Prepared for Anything: Contingency plans that leave no one behind. This isn't just wishful thinking – it's achievable. And it starts with a conversation. Let's talk about how we can build a more inclusive and resilient travel experience for everyone. Want to learn more? My masterclass on mitigating disruptions and promoting inclusivity for marginalised passengers is available upon request. Let's make travel better, together. #traveldisruption #accessibility #inclusion #passengerrights #disabilitytravel https://lnkd.in/eGpsmzeV