- New research shows 7m UK workers still experience workplace discrimination due to their identity
- News comes as Manchester movement, She Leads for Legacy, announces a string of national change makers supporting its autumn event ‘Empowered to Lead’ which is focused on driving workplace equality
- Baroness Floella Benjamin, Ex-Mayor Joanne Anderson, Dr Tessy Ojo CBE, Ex-BBC Penny Haslam are among the change-making speakers supporting
Unsettling global research this week has revealed that the UK still has a long way to go to improve racial equality in the workplace.
A shocking 22% of employees in the UK said they have experienced workplace discrimination, amounting to 7m workers across the country. This more than doubled to 45 per cent of people from a black background.
On a more positive note, the study, by global research group Savanta also revealed some progress — 45% of UK businesses have ED&I policies in place.
However, it’s very clear businesses still have a long journey ahead; driving change and continuing to educate workforces is a vital part of this journey.
The news comes at the same time as a line-up of stellar keynote speakers has been announced for the Empowered to Lead Conference 2023 in Manchester, featuring women who have broken workplace barriers and inspired change.
Set to take place on October 28th at The Stoller Hall, Manchester, this conference promises to be a transformative event, driving conversations about empowerment, diversity, and leadership.
Baroness Floella Benjamin, a distinguished British actress, writer, and advocate, known for her significant contributions to children’s television and her tireless work in championing children’s rights and diversity issues, is amongst the first speakers of the day.
Sharon Amesu, multi-award-winning co-founder of She Leads for Legacy comments:
“This latest research comes as no surprise to me. We are seeing lots of change, but there is still so much work to do. It is a long journey which requires consistent commitment and education across all areas.
Our conference is designed to address the unique challenges and perspectives of black women, providing them with the insights to help them excel in their professional journeys, and provide allies with the tools to be agents of change.”
The event brings together leaders from diverse backgrounds into an inclusive environment, where they can learn, share experiences, and forge lasting connections.
Afiya Amesu, co-founder of She Leads for Legacy, pupil barrister and daughter of Sharon adds:
“The Empowered to Lead conference is more than an event; It’s a movement that amplifies the power of unity, the strength of diversity, and the potential of collective change. It’s an invitation to all to be part of something greater.”
Other keynote speakers include:
- Joanne Anderson (Founder of Innervision Consultancy and First Black Female Mayor in the UK)
- Dr Tessy Ojo CBE (CEO of The Diana Award, Comic Relief Board Member and BBC’s Appeals Advisory Committee Board Member)
- Penny Haslam (Former BBC Presenter, Motivational Speaker, Founder and Author)
If you would like to join this community of change-makers, book your tickets for the day here.
