Workplace inclusion mahi is vulnerable to polarisation, and board members and senior executives can find it challenging to block out the noise and calibrate their own position and that of their organisation.
“While external pressures such as anti-DEI advocacy create challenges, employees still need inclusive environments to perform at their best, and many leaders lack the necessary tools and insights to navigate these dynamics effectively,” says Diversity Works New Zealand Chief Executive Maretha Smit.
In times of economic downturn and geo-political shifts, this gap poses significant risk to team cohesion, employee engagement, and the long-term sustainability of inclusive workplace cultures - precisely when they are most needed.
Diversity Works New Zealand has developed a series of expert-led masterclasses that will provide governance and senior leadership teams with the strategic insights and emerging trends shaping workplace inclusion.
This modular programme equips senior leaders to critically assess inclusion initiatives and make informed decisions with confidence. By overcoming the fear of getting it wrong, leaders can foster a workplace culture that drives both economic and social impact, replacing hesitation with purposeful action.
“We need our senior leaders to have the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills to drive meaningful workplace inclusion strategies without being scared of using the wrong language or being cancelled,” says Maretha.
The Workplace Inclusion: Board and Executive Programme is launching with 10 modules. Each module consists of a 45 to 60-minute discussion, allowing the programme to easily align with existing board or senior team meeting schedules. Organisations will select a minimum of four modules, which can be delivered in person or online.
“Through this programme, leaders will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding inclusion and its role in organisational success. It will be a safe space to get things wrong and a supportive environment for leaders to ask questions, test ideas, and build confidence.”
Organisations can select the modules that are most relevant to their working environment. Module topics at launch include bias in decision-making, cultural acumen in governance, demystifying inclusive language, best practice for hybrid work, pay equity and pay transparency and workplace inclusion in risk and crisis management.
New modules will be added to the programme over the next few months.
Discover how the Workplace Inclusion: Board and Executive Programme can empower your leadership team to drive meaningful inclusion.
