In our blog section we cover our events and news related to diversity and inclusion. We also share valuable content, like expert interviews and insights.
Thought Leadership
d&i Leaders Global Forum 2024: Insights and Reflections by WeAreOpen CEO Nora Varady
In May 2024, I had the privilege of attending the d&i Leaders Global Forum in London. This gathering of thought leaders, practitioners, and advocates from around the world was an eye-opening experience, offering a balcony view of where DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) is heading globally. This article is a summary of my takeaways from the Forum. I would like to extend my gratitude to CMS Hungary for their generous support, enabling WeAreOpen’s participation in this event.
3 most important takeaways from the festival by Helga Sasdi
Navigating diversity - 3 key learnings from Cannes Lions 2024
Helga Sásdi, Chair of the WeAreOpen Board, recently traveled to Cannes to join global professionals and industry leaders at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. Known for showcasing groundbreaking campaigns and celebrating innovations in advertising, the event offers much more: workshops, sessions, and personal talks providing inspiration, and encouraging the adoption of fresh strategies. How does DEI and the value of openness influence communication, advertising and business outcomes in 2024? Read the 3 most important takeaways from the festival!
WeAreOpen is thrilled to collaborate with BlackRock, a leader in fostering Employee Resource Group (ERG) initiatives. We are honored to feature an interview with Bea Juvancz, MD at BlackRock, who shares valuable insights into their successful ERG initiatives and the importance of such programs in creating inclusive workplace environments.
‘It’s in our DNA’ - insights from István Lenk, Managing Director of Eaton, on DEI and Pride Month
In a rapidly evolving corporate landscape, Eaton Hungary stands out for its steadfast commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). As Pride Month highlights the importance of inclusiveness, István Lenk, of Eaton, shares insights on how DEI is integral to their corporate culture and leadership development, reflecting the company's dedication to fostering an innovative and supportive workplace.
Discover how ERGs are transforming workplaces and fostering inclusion with insights, best practices, and our updated toolkit.
Celebrating ERGs: Highlights from WeAreOpen's Event with BlackRock
We are thrilled to share highlights from our recent joint event with BlackRock, focusing on the critical role of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) in fostering inclusive workplaces. This collaboration brought together leaders, employees, and diversity advocates to explore the transformative power of ERGs in creating a supportive and growth-oriented environment.
Revealing WeAreOpen's Action Plan on Closing the Gender Pay Gap
Accelerating Progress: WeAreOpen's Workshop Marks a Milestone in Bridging the Gender Pay Gap
The gender pay gap isn't just a statistic; it's a glaring reflection of the systemic disparities entrenched within our societies. It's a reminder that despite significant strides in various realms, economic inequality between genders remains a persistent challenge. However, at WeAreOpen, we refuse to accept the status quo. We're committed to driving change and accelerating progress towards equal opportunities for all.
„If we approach the issue by advocating for the elimination of the boys' club, it's unlikely to gain their support”
Amelia Suda-Gosch, former co-CEO of Female Founders and partner at Inclusive Minds, provided fascinating insights into DEI strategies and the importance of promoting gender equality in the IT industry. Amelia shared her thoughts and experiences on the role of women in leading startups, as well as how to involve current leaders in equality initiatives. Throughout the conversation, they focused on key topics such as the role of culture and mentorship in promoting inclusivity.
“A vocal, frustrated employee is one who genuinely cares”
Martin Parkes, Managing Director at BlackRock, Co-Head of EU Public Policy, and Global Co-Chair of the LGBTQ+ OUT & Allies network offers an insightful glimpse into his role and the business implications of diversity and inclusion. Parkes was a featured speaker at the 2023 OPEN Conference.
WeAreOpen’s Year in Review: Navigating the ESG Era and Redefining Corporate Diversity
The year 2023 marked a pivotal moment in the history of WeAreOpen, as the organization celebrated its 10th anniversary. This milestone not only symbolizes a decade of tireless advocacy but also signifies a transformative shift from a purely activist organization to a comprehensive diversity and inclusion service-provider NGO. In this blog post, we will delve into the challenges faced by corporate sustainability in 2023, highlighting the rise of the Anti-ESG movement and the evolving landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, and WeAreOpen’s strategic narrative on the above.
“The most important thing is the company finds this work to be important enough.”
Diving into the intricacies of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), exploring ways to measure organizational diversity, and understanding the vital interplay between DEI policies and strategies were just a few topics touched upon in the interview with Sarah Cordivano, who shed light on these essential aspects of DEI. Sarah, an active voice in the DEI sphere, who recently spoke at OPEN Conference 2023, brings to the table profound knowledge from her book 'How to Succeed at an Impossible Job', navigating us through the complexities and subtle nuances of DEI across different organizational settings.
Interview with Martina Hlisnikovská, DEI Leader for IKEA in the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Slovakia
“It's vital to be oneself and feel secure”
Exploring the complexities of implementing DEI initiatives in the Central and Eastern European region, addressing domestic violence with targeted campaigns, and ensuring the tangible impact of LGBTQ+ support within corporate structures—these were a few of the key topics we delved into during our conversation at the OPEN Conference 2023. Martina Hlisnikovská, navigating through these critical subjects as the DEI Leader for IKEA in the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Slovakia, shed light on the company's conscientious journey towards creating an inclusive work environment and fostering a meaningful impact in local communities.
Interview with Paul Fox, His Majesty's Ambassador to Hungary
“Diversity not only reinforces societal change but also reflects it.”
What does diversity and inclusion mean in the history of the United Kingdom, and how has the status of social and workplace equality changed over the years? Among other topics, we discussed these questions with Paul Fox, His Majesty's Ambassador to Hungary, in an exclusive interview conducted during the 2023 OPEN Conference. Ambassador Fox provided insight into his country’s lengthy and complex journey in inclusion and diversity, also showcasing how these changes are reflected across the varied aspects of modern British society and business life.
