EY Canada’s ‘Shapers of the Future’ platform is highlighting how diversity, equity and inclusion is embedded in its workforce, leadership development and company culture.
The platform was designed to spotlight employees whose work and lived experiences drive business and cultural impact, says Albert Anelli, managing partner of talent at EY Canada. The company wanted to move beyond representation alone and show belonging in action with how different backgrounds and identities are welcomed and how that strengthens the company.
“It’s a people-powered platform and a campaign that really brings forward our talent and company values. It was our way of basically showing the market that our power is the ability of our people to bring their genuine selves to work and the diversity of [each story] is key to our culture.”
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Any employee is welcome to share and highlight an experience they’re proud of or when they’ve encountered a challenge. “It really is about people being proud of who they are and what differentiates them,” says Anelli. “If you look at most of the posts, [people talk about] what fuels them and how they bring that energy to work with them every day.”
The Shapers initiative also helps to create a sense of connection and belonging among employees, he adds. “When our more senior people share, our younger [employees realize they have things in common] in terms of juggling work and personal responsibilities, so it’s definitely inspiring. I think in a complex and competitive environment, having the ability to look up to [people you work for who] are dealing with the same challenges creates a greater sense of belonging.”
While these stories are released around key dates such as Black History Month, International Women’s Day and Pride Month, each profile goes deeper, notes Anelli, exploring people’s passions and career paths and how EY’s inclusive culture enables them to thrive.
He adds it’s important for companies to continue focusing on DEI initiatives so employees feel comfortable and are able to share their unique points of view. “It’s critical to have a diverse workforce. If we all looked the same, thought the same and acted the same, we wouldn’t be very attractive to our clients who are looking for different perspectives.”
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