Next month on 15 October 2024, Mark Brown Head of Impact and Sustainability and enABLE Network Lead of Motability Operations Ltd, will speak at the world’s first Global Disability ERG Summit, held in partnership with the Financial Times and sponsored by Motability Operations Ltd and MSD.
“As the lead of Motability Operations Ltd's enABLE Network, I know that visible and influential disability ERG/Networks are driving the next phase of culture change.
Great ERG/Network leaders are able to apply a disability lens to an organisation’s strategic priorities to support progress. These conversations are especially important in my area of expertise as Head of Impact and Sustainability.”
To hear more from Mark, register to attend our Global Summit: https://lnkd.in/eftX5DCk
ID: Purple header reads PurpleSpace Speaker Announcement, Mark Brown, Head of Impact and Sustainability, enABLE Network Lead at Motability Operations. Text banner reads Global Disability ERG Summit 15 October 2024 in partnership with Financial Times, Motability Operations and MSD. Graphic shows a photo of Mark, a white male with short dark hair, wearing a dark suit and striped tie, smiling to camera as he stands next to a paned glass window.
Unleashing Potential Through Inclusion 💜
"You can’t fly if your wings are clipped. Coming out unclipped my wings, I learned how to fly, and now I soar." (Yeap - That's what I said in a town hall, when speaking about my coming out journey)
Three years ago, I made a pivotal decision to come out about my hEDS diagnosis during a town hall. The response was incredible, thanks in large part to my colleague and D&I activator, Anita, who made me feel safe to share my story.
What Sharing My Story Changed
- No longer hiding when my body betrays me.
- No need to pretend I’m fine when I’m not.
- Finally, being myself felt like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders.
This experience and the support I received inspired me to become a Disability advocate, eager to help others break the bias and contribute positively.
Why Creating an Inclusive Environment is Important
- Accessibility and Empathy: We need accessible workplaces with empathy-driven, supportive policies. That also means safe spaces where colleagues can share and thrive.
- Smart Business: Diverse teams generate innovative ideas and solve problems better. Inclusivity boosts engagement and loyalty, reduces turnover, and attracts top talent.
- Community and Support: Removing barriers helps everyone, leading to respect, creativity, and collaboration.
Let’s keep pushing for inclusive workplaces. It’s not just the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing to do! 🚀
♻️ If this message resonates, drop a comment below or share to spread the word. Thanks!
Image Description: A blind woman works on a braille note next to a colleague. This powerful image is part of the Business Disability Forum's campaign to change the image of Disability and improve the portrayal of disabled people in the workplace - Visit the Business Disability Forum’s website here: https://lnkd.in/efsCDzJH#Novartis#Disability#DisabilityPrideMonth#InclusiveWorkplace#Inclusion#Diversity#Accessibility#DisabledAndProud#BreakDownBarriers#CelebrateDifferences#DisabilityAwareness#EqualityForAll#DisabilityCommunity#A11y#RespectAndAcceptance#DisabilityRepresentation#NotAshamed#WorkplaceInclusion#SmartBusiness#CommunitySupport
"Change starts with employees who feel safe and empowered to stand up and be counted. It's then up to companies to make every disclosure count by removing disabling barriers, providing equitable accommodations and opportunities, and working towards holistic improvements that break down broader barriers to inclusion."
In her latest piece for Forbes, our founder Caroline Casey discusses the power of self-identification (self-ID) in the fight to end disability exclusion and unlock crucial insights into the lived experiences of disabled employees.
Read the full article to learn how pioneering self-ID initiatives are empowering companies to unleash the immense potential of disabled talent and drive lasting cultural change:
https://lnkd.in/eMuKzJAM
⚡ Did you know the only 15-20% of people with neurodiversity get jobs! ⚡ This is why it's important to support role models like Dan Harris FRSA who advocate to change this number. Coinciding with #NeurodiversityCelebrationWeek, Dan has been nominated for Positive Role Model Award, you can vote for him in the link on the original post
⚡My Thoughts:
👉 Without constant awareness and advocacy, the UK will be losing a significant contribution from its neurodiverse workforce. This loss can only grow as the number of diagnoses grow. At the moment, only a small 15-20% of neurodivergent people are included in the workforce, this is not good enough, and frankly dangerous. Similar to society, many businesses see neurodiverse people as a liability, that their needs are more than their value-add. This narrative needs to change, and the truth of the neurodivergent talent and potential contributions to the business world need to be explored, not tomorrow but today!
👉 Without people like Dan Harris FRSA who make the daily sacrifice of going out there, raising awareness, and advocating on behalf of this cause, nothing would change. The UK will end up with larger numbers of neurodivergent youth that can not support itself financially, not because it is incapable, but because it is declined the opportunity to work, or expected to work in an unfit environment.
👉 This type of one-size-fits-all business environment not only narrows down the type of positions and industries a neurodivergent individual can do, but also creates a ceiling in the corporate ladder where these individuals can not be promoted and reach their potential. Mostly, because promotions and leadership in today's world are associated with social skills and emotional intelligence of the neurotypical individuals.
👉 It is our duty as a society and workforce to encourage leaders like Dan who are relentlessly contributing to changing the narrative, showcasing what neurodiverse leaders can do through disruptive change to bias and stereotypes. As a woman in business, and through this vote, I show my gratitude to a well-deserved man, hoping one day his advocacy will mean that my autistic twin toddlers will have a good chance of a descent career.
The Joshie-Man’s Dad | Founder of Neurodiversity in Business charity
🙏 I am humbled and overwhelmed to have been nominated for the Positive Role Model Award for Disability at the National Diversity Awards.
💗This is particularly impactful for me as it’s an amazing recognition of our growing #neurodiversity movement.
I founded Neurodiversity in Business to #ChangeTheWorld for my non-speaking son and hero #TheJoshieMan, so that it embraces and supports neurodivergent people, and recognises the strengths, skills and abilities that we bring.
🧠 As an autistic ADHD’er, and, most importantly, as a father, I am committed to working with businesses across the world to create more inclusive workplaces, that accept, respect and support people whose brains work differently.
😊 It’d mean a lot if you’d take two minutes to vote. And most importantly, it will bring wider awareness to the need for #NeuroInclusionNow for the neurodivergent employees.
https://bit.ly/3Vn6AnG
🙏 Thanks for your support.
#NDA24#NeuroInclusionNow#NeurodiversityInBusiness
Image description: A congratulatory message to Dan Harris from the National Diversity Awards 2024 for being a nominee in the category of Positive Role Model Award in Disability, sponsored by Ovo Group.
Increasing engagement one community and person at a time. Tenacious driver, leading with compassion and empathy building connections and resources between like-minded individuals for the betterment of all.
Wonderful tips Leslie Rosen Stern.
I’ve always been a big believer in “Day in the Life” exchanges. It has proven to be an amazing way to raise appreciation while breaking down egos and silos. Also interesting is the cultural differences between companies who support this activity and those that shy away and why. This exercise reminds leaders what it is like to be new. It takes courage to be unsure and vulnerable walking in someone else’s shoes and allowing them to walk in yours.
Impact Strategist & Facilitator | Proactive Teen Wellness Director, MA/MSW
February is Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAIM). It's about embracing and leveraging diverse strengths within our teams, creating workplaces where everyone, regardless of ability, contributes to the success of the team.
Together, we can foster workplaces where everyone belongs. Want some ideas?Check out these 6 fun tips for your teams:
😎 Emoji Reactions in Meetings: Encourage everyone to use emojis during meetings to express thoughts and reactions. It's a universal language that transcends barriers and adds a splash of color to your virtual gatherings.
✅ Inclusive Job Titles: This month, swap out traditional job titles for creative ones that celebrate individual strengths. From Chief Inspiration Officer to Captain of Creativity, let everyone shine in their unique role.
🧠 Silent Brainstorms: Ever tried a brainstorming session without words? Challenge your team to jot down ideas silently and record them on index cards or post-its. It's a fantastic way to include everyone, introverts and extroverts alike.
🤣 Meme Mondays: Kickstart the week with a burst of humor. Encourage your teammates to share memes that celebrate diversity and inclusion. Laughter is a universal language that breaks down barriers.
🎨 Artistic Expression Day: Dedicate a day to artistic expression. Encourage colleagues to create and share their art, whether it's paintings, drawings, or poetry. Celebrate the beauty of diverse perspectives. Invite individuals to share at the start of your next staff meeting.
💺 Chair Swap Tuesdays: Spice up the office routine by swapping chairs for a day. It's a playful way to experience different perspectives and create an inclusive seating arrangement.
Let's make JDAIM an impactful journey of inclusion and celebration! 🎉
Do you have any additional fun tips to add? Drop one in the comments below.
⬇
#WhatWeLearned Supercharge Your Business Through Disability Inclusion: A Strategic Move for Growth
At this week's Midday Connect session, Dr. Kirk Adams PhD, Managing Director of Innovative Impact LLC, shared how embracing disability inclusion can significantly boost your business. His journey, being blind since the age of five, reflects not just personal resilience but a blueprint for how companies can unlock untapped potential.
Here’s why disability inclusion makes sense for your business:
✅ Access to Untapped Talent
Only 35% of individuals with significant disabilities are employed, compared to 70% of the general population. This presents an opportunity to tap into a highly skilled and motivated workforce that is often overlooked.
✅ Higher Retention & Productivity
Companies that employ people with disabilities experience lower turnover, absenteeism, and higher employee satisfaction. These employees bring creativity and problem-solving skills that can significantly boost your team’s effectiveness.
Actionable Step
Take the first step toward inclusion by exploring resources like your local Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency. They can provide pre-screened candidates, and in many cases, cover costs for accommodations like specialized hardware or software.
Creating a diverse workforce isn't just the right thing to do—it’s a smart business decision that can improve your bottom line.
Watch the full session here: https://lnkd.in/gFxRHuiw#DisabilityInclusion#WorkplaceDiversity#InclusiveBusiness#MiddayConnect#Entrepreneurship
Supporting disability-led and disability-focused business isn't just about making a purchase; it's about investing in the disability community!
Check out products and services on the ProFound Marketplace.
Meet Alycia Anderson of The Alycia Anderson Company. Book Alycia for powerful public speaking: alyciaanderson.com#ProFoundMarketplace#WeAreProFound#DisabilityInclusion#Accessibility#DEI
ID: Cover shows a photo of Alycia.
Slide 1:
Public Speaking Services
Alycia shares her journey globally to help companies and organizations understand the true benefits inherent to building a diverse, inclusive and accessible workplace and society. Shining light on how our diversities are core to the qualities that make each of us uniquely qualified and able in life.
Slide 2:
Alycia’s authenticity and charisma draw others to her, and she naturally connects with them to inspire, mentor, champion, and support. Alycia right sizes everyday obstacles to open minds to a world of possibility. "And that's how she rolls!"
Slide 3:
Award Winning Keynotes/Trainings Include: The Heart of Inclusion in Housing Getting to the Heart of Disabling Ableism in the Workplace Inclusivity Removes Invisibility Intersectionality & Embracing Equity Through the Lens of Disability
Slide 4:
Other Services
Slide 5:
Consulting
Beyond compliance product/accessibility consulting, Fit Modeling, Product Influencing
Slide 6:
Training and Education
90 minute in person or virtual corporate training facilitations.
Option 1: Disabling Ableism MicroLearning Series Training
Option 2: Disability Inclusion Leadership Training
Slide 7
Learn More
alyciaanderson.com
Slide 8
Find the ProFound Marketplace and more member listings on the ProFound app.
This twenty year disability inclusion journey as an allied Co-Chair has been so rewarding enabling my servant leadership for all. The 3rd Annual A.B.L.E. (Access, Belonging, Leadership, Equity) Summit: Embracing Neurodiversity last week highlighted CapABLE ERG (Gairda Lauterbach, Jeff Kearns, Kassey PharmD, MHA / Executive Sponsor Christy Siegel) assisting Novartis DEI (Wanda Sims, Dr. Angela Anderson, Stephie Elms) internationally to understand the importance of driving inclusivity across the company. CDC statistics show that 1 in every 4 (28%) people have a disability with approximately 80% of the disabilities' hidden. Additionally, People with Disabilities have the highest intersectionality across all ethnicities and groups.
This year’s theme, Embracing Neurodiversity, is critical to our work in ensuring that every associate feels empowered to bring their authentic selves to work.
The agenda included:
Keynote Session: “The Power of Neurodiversity: Unlocking the Potential of Diverse Minds,” presented by Jessica Michaels, an expert in disability inclusion. Christy Siegel, SVP, US TA Head Immunology and CapABLE ERG Executive Sponsor will moderate the conversation.
Panel Discussion: “Breaking Down Barriers: Creating an Inclusive Workplace,” where associates will share their experiences and strategies for creating an environment where neurodiverse employees can thrive.
Advocacy Fair and Networking Lunch: An opportunity to connect with fellow associates, learn from nonprofit organizations, and the unveil of the digital quilt.
Let's all continue to be courageously curious and compassionate to all as any one of us can develop some type of disability.
#Neurodiversity#Intersectionality#Novartis#Disabilities#TwentyFivePercent#AboutAllofUs#Courageous#Curious#Superpower#Compassion
🌟 A Huge Thank You to the ReelChange Event Panelists & Participants 🌟
A heartfelt thanks to our panelists and participants in the "ReelChange: Shaping Accessible Workplaces" webinar with ReelAbilities Houston yesterday afternoon. Here’s a few highlights:
Angel Ponce highlighted the core of our discussion: "People with disabilities don’t want to be seen as victims and they don’t want to be seen as heroes," emphasizing the importance of normalizing disability in the workplace and society.
M. Cody Francisco, CDI addressed what individuals can do to get past the stigma of “disability,” particularly from the perspective of D/deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals: actively raising awareness through open conversation with coworkers.
Jeffrey Feinstein personal narrative underlined the necessity for workplaces to be adaptable and supportive, fostering an environment where employees with disabilities can thrive.
Jamie Paul Weiner reminded us that understanding and accommodating diverse needs are crucial to a genuinely inclusive workplace, but employers do not have to bear the burden of knowing every possible accommodation employee may need. Simply discuss with each employee.
Together, their insights form a blueprint for creating workplaces that are not just compliant, but truly accessible and inclusive. Attendees will be receiving follow-up resources via email!
A special thank you to ReelAbilities Houston for their unwavering commitment to showcasing the talents and stories of people with disabilities. Your partnership is invaluable.
#MasterWord#ReelAbilitiesHouston#AccessibleWorkplaces#ReelAbilities2024#InclusionMatters#ReelChange
❓Did you know that only 4.6% of employees self-identify their disability status with employers? Furthermore, 76% of employees do not fully disclose their disabilities at work, and this figure rises to 80% among C-suite executives and their direct reports.
▶️ When employees with disabilities are reluctant to disclose,
organizations miss out on vital information that could drive inclusivity
forward. This underscores a significant organizational culture challenge.
😨 Employees often fear backlash, limited growth opportunities, or being placed in unfulfilling roles. These fears are hard to accept, but they must be addressed if we are to foster a truly inclusive workplace.
🎯Increased disclosure creates opportunities for meaningful actions, ensuring inclusivity is both seen and felt across the organization. This highlights the need for thoughtful, supportive policies that encourage both disclosure and identification.
🌐 As the 2024 Disability:IN Global Conference comes to a close, I'm reflecting on the powerful insights shared and the critical conversations we've had.
💚 At #NFP, we are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels safe and empowered to share their full selves. The insights from this conference will be invaluable as we continue to build an inclusive and supportive culture.
📸 Image Description: Top Left - In session with Pamela Wheeler, NFP, an Aon company's Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer; Top Right - Chatting with Jason Carr, Chair of our D-IS-Ability Business Resource Group; Bottom Left - Pointing to #AreYouIN?; Bottom Right - Group conference candid with myself, Jason, NFP's Social Media Manager and DEIB Advisory Board Ambassador, Carin Bennett, along with our Corporate Disability:IN Inclusion Consultant, Sarah E. Kirwan, MSPA.
#PeopleFirst#DiversityAndInclusion#DEIB#InclusionMatters#BreakingBarriers#Accommodations#Workforce#EmployeeRetention#Belonging#InsuranceIndustry#FinancialServices#Empowerment#InclusiveWorkplace#DisabilityInclusion#DisabilityAccommodation
Life & Executive Coach * Working through people, for people * Board Member
1moPheena Lonergan Gerry Scollan