D & I
HOW DO YOU THINK LEADERS CAN PROMOTE INCLUSIVITY IN YOUR TEAMS ?
Ainur If we want to encourage inclusivity , we should start with ourselves .
Role modelling is the first step to ensure that people will follow us . Then the most important thing is to remember that it ’ s not only behavioral change , it ’ s a mindset change . It might take more than a year because usually business leaders are very fast . They want miracles to happen immediately , and when they don ’ t see the results immediately they tend to give up with the pursuit of diversity .
So first I would say start from yourself . Have the principles be a role model , show it and people definitely see it and they will follow . Have patience .
Javier Lead by example is important to start with because the actions of the leader sets the tone for group behavior . Demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion , showing interest in different perspectives and giving visibility to everyone ’ s achievements — all these things together communicate to teams that diverse backgrounds and different points of view are not just not only accepted , but they are also valued .
Furthermore , I would say that another action that can be added to that is fostering the exchange — integrating perspectives from different contexts and backgrounds and reaching that decision making .
This is particularly valuable in the sustainability landscape where the environmental and social challenges require a creative approach .
Having an active listening channel for people to give feedback and take action based on feedback — that ’ s very important as well to me , as part of the inclusive leadership .
When all these strategies are put into practice they help not just to build teams that reflect the values of equity and respect , but I think they also improve the ability of the project to generate a positive impact .
Javette When you ’ re talking about leadership , that also leads to the culture and the opportunity to listen and understand different perspectives . Internally , who are the decision makers , who are the stakeholders with whom you ’ re going to engage ?
Then externally , as Peter mentioned , we engage with suppliers to bring them up to speed to ensure that they understand our processes and what we ’ re inviting them to participate in . Inclusivity , though , does really require a dialogue discussion and a willingness to listen and engage . I think some of that does have to come with education , training and awareness sessions , too .
100 February 2025