Vivian Santora’s Post

Ramadan Mubarak! Inclusive work environments include supporting your employees during times of religious observance. Ramadan began a few days ago, and it's a good time to think about how leadership can support their religious employees during times of observation and celebration. While the majority of Swedes are atheist/loosely Lutheran, there are still many people in Sweden who are guided by religion, and there are ways to support religious observation without impacting productivity or limiting non-observing employees. Here are some easy tweaks you can make to the workplace during Ramadan for observing employees: 🕌 Understand that not all practicing Muslims observe Ramadan the same way. From health reasons to personal ones, everyone may have different levels of observation; ⏳ Allow flexible working hours so your employees can fulfil their spiritual obligations, and have adequate time to book before breaking their fast. Most employees will notify or request PTO well in advance to allow for planning, and adjust their working hours accordingly; 🌌 If employees work on site, set aside a quiet, private room (it can be an empty office) for prayer; 🍰 Still invite your Muslim colleagues to fika. Even if they're not eating or drinking, they can still be part of social events (although they may choose to not join). It's also not wrong of you to eat in front of them. (Pro tip: if you're bringing in cakes or pastries for fika, box some for observing Muslims to take home for an after sunset dessert!). As workplaces become more diverse, it's important for companies to have frank and open discussions about different observations and how they can and cannot be accommodated. Remember, you're not required to change your whole company structure to support different observances! But you'll find it often just takes small adjustments to improve employee wellbeing, increase inclusivity, and maintain productivity even during times of religious observation. What are some other tips that you've heard? #RamadanMubarak #Ramadan2024 #DiversityandInclusion #InclusiveWorkplaces

“Ramadan Kareem! May this holy month bring us peace, joy, and spiritual fulfillment. As the crescent moon appears, may our faith be renewed, and our hearts be filled with gratitude!” Ramadan starts this week in the UK. Millions will prepare for Ramadan's spiritual journey. This sacred period, significantly influences the daily routines of Muslim employees. As employers, we must create an inclusive environment that accommodates their needs. Here are four practical ways to support Muslim employees during Ramadan: 1️⃣ Understand Ramadan's impact: Fasting affects energy and productivity. 2️⃣ Know the legal framework: The Equality Act 2010 protects religious freedom. 3️⃣ Recognise the importance of inclusivity: Accommodating practices boosts performance. 4️⃣ Engage with your Muslim employees: Ask, and truly listen. Practical adjustments like flexible hours, prayer breaks, and dietary considerations can make all the difference. Encouraging understanding and discretion during fasting hours fosters mindfulness among colleagues. For employers, this isn't just about compliance or a legal matter—it's about respect, support, and enhancing workplace inclusivity. Let's embrace Ramadan's spirit of unity and reflection together. 🌟

With Eid al-Adha upon us, it's a reminder of the values of sacrifice, service, humility, compassion, and gratitude. Eid Mubarak to all celebrating today; please keep Palestine and the Palestinians in Gaza in your prayers. Here are 7 tips to foster inclusivity in the workplace this Eid.

Ramadan Kareem to our valued clients and candidates in the Muslim community! As we embark on this sacred month, let's unite in ensuring our workplace radiates inclusivity and support. Here are some tips to foster an environment where our Muslim colleagues feel empowered and valued: ✅ Recognize the energy challenges of fasting colleagues and honor their needs. ✅ Extend flexible working hours or remote options to support fasting schedules. ✅ Schedule meetings when fasting colleagues are most energized and engaged. ✅ Provide designated areas for short breaks or prayer moments. ✅ Offer supportive messages and assistance to fasting colleagues. ✅ Plan gatherings avoiding food-related activities during fasting hours. ✅ Cultivate an environment of understanding and support for all. Let's celebrate diversity and unity this Ramadan in our workplace! #RamadanKareem #inclusiveworkplaces #WeConnectTheBest

Seven tips to foster inclusion for our fasting colleagues. #ramadankareem!

Did you know, for Muslims who fast in observance of Ramadan, that includes abstaining from drinking water from sunrise to sunset? Learn 5 ways you can create an inclusive work environment for your Muslim employees this month. https://bit.ly/3vadGkI

🌍 Creating an Inclusive Social Environment for Muslim Employees Team bonding and social activities are critical to fostering collaboration, trust, and innovation in any organisation. However, to truly build a workplace where everyone thrives, it's essential to consider the diverse needs of all employees. For our Muslim colleagues, this means being mindful of social practices that may conflict with their values, such as those centered around alcohol or certain timings that may overlap with prayer or fasting hours. Inclusivity isn’t just about participation; it’s about creating an environment where all team members feel comfortable and respected. Here are some ways to ensure we create an inclusive social environment for everyone: 1. Offer Alcohol-Free Options: If hosting events where alcohol is present, ensure that there are appealing, non-alcoholic options and consider organizing activities not centered around drinking. 2. Respect Prayer Times & Dietary Preferences: Be mindful of prayer breaks and provide halal meal options at events. 3. Inclusive Activities: Plan team bonding events that everyone can engage in, such as sports, games, or creative workshops, which don't revolve around activities that may exclude certain groups. By making these small but meaningful adjustments, we ensure that all employees, regardless of their background, can fully participate and contribute to the success of our team. Let’s continue to build a workplace where everyone feels valued and included. 💼✨ #InclusiveWorkplace #DiversityAndInclusion #TeamBonding #CulturalAwareness

Every Friday morning before starting work, our Muslim employees gather and recite the Quran Surah Al Kahf. We believe this spiritual agenda has a positive impact on employees and the company. Fahri Karakas (2010) completed a research journal entitled "Spirituality and Performance in Organizations: A Literature Review". According to this research, there are three benefits of a spirituality agenda for employees which also support organizational performance: 1. Spirituality improves employee well-being and quality of life; 2. Spirituality gives employees a sense of purpose and meaning in the workplace; 3. Spirituality gives employees a sense of connectedness and a sense of community We are happy and satisfied to make this activity a company culture that continues to be preserved. #LifeAtAlien

Check out this bp article of me and my colleagues’ reflections on the month of Ramadan!