Promoting equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in the workplace is a growing priority for many organizations, resulting in a new job category: the EDI practitioner. This emerging field is attracting interest among individuals who are drawn to the work of supporting historically marginalized and under-represented groups. and creating a more equitable and inclusive society.
In response to student interest in incorporating equity, diversity and inclusion in their development, the UBC Sauder School of Business hosted an online event to discuss expanding career opportunities in EDI areas, with Kathy Kwon (EDI Manager, Bench Accounting), Seema Bakthula (Director of Diversity Equity and Inclusion, Lightspeed HQ), Dmitri Stupak (Inclusion Recruiter, IBM North America), and Gabriela Jordão (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Manager, Hootsuite).
UBC Sauder assistant professor Dr. Rebecca Paluch, whose academic focus includes diversity and inclusion in organizations, was inspired by the dynamic conversation between students and industry experts. “I was so impressed with the ways that EDI practitioners are rising to the challenges of today’s complex and diverse work environment and creating real change in their organizations,” says Dr. Paluch. “I think the underlying message from all the practitioners was that students should take charge of their career paths, especially when there doesn’t seem to be one already carved out for them. Doing so can lead to a truly fulfilling and meaningful career with real impact in organizations and on society.”
Visit the UBC Sauder School of Business website to read about the discussion of how UBC Sauder students and the local business community are working together to keep a focus on integrating inclusivity and equity at the forefront.
UBC is committed to cultivating and supporting a diverse community that creates and sustains equitable and inclusive campuses, through Strategy 4: Inclusive Excellence.