Ageism, social mobility, microaggressions along with diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) fatigue were a selection of the topics discussed in the Diversity and Inclusivity Finance Forum (DIFF) in the last 12 months.
As another year of DIFF events comes to a close, we decided to look back at our events and podcasts and showcase our highlights.
To kick off the start of the event year, we talked about ageism in society and the workplace, offering insights about how this can negatively impact businesses and how age, at both ends of the spectrum, can be embraced.
Social mobility was next on the agenda, talking about the retention and progression challenge for people from different social backgrounds and the importance of sponsorship.
Microaggressions were also discussed, with speakers talking about why people may perpetuate them and the impact they can have on people, along with how to mitigate them.
At the annual DIFF lunch, Baroness Hazarika of Coatbridge in the county of Lanarkshire talked about the glass cliff edge for minorities, and we launched DIFFerent voices, an exclusive audio recording of first-hand accounts from our members about their journey with DIFF over the past year.
To round-up the year, DE&I fatigue was discussed, talking about how to make targets effective, how to improve retention and progression and how to combat DE&I fatigue.
This year the team in its podcast series also delved into intersectionality, microaggressions and physical disabilities to name a few.
As part of this year’s event, DIFF also committed ongoing support to the African Diaspora Economic Inclusion Foundation (ADEIF) founded by Shereen Daniels.
The foundation aims to address economic inequality among the Africa diaspora with a focus on empowering female entrepreneurs of African heritage.
Bharat Sagar, chair of DIFF, said: “Our carefully curated lineup of distinguished speakers explored a range of pertinent topics, from the nuances of age diversity to discussions surrounding social mobility, microaggressions, and bias. We also had crucial conversations addressing DE&I fatigue and exploring strategies to sustain the commitment to building inclusive environments.
“Our monthly DIFF audio series continues to amplify these vital discussions. We take pride in the fact that, through their participation, our members have not only recognised the heightened relevance of DE&I in today’s landscape but also acquired new skills. These include increased awareness, confidence, resilience, and the credibility to assert themselves, lead change, and empower colleagues at both company and market levels.
“We also extend our gratitude to the companies that provide support to external members through our bursary and sponsorship programmes. Your ongoing partnership underscores the enduring relevance of our mission.
“We look forward to continuing this journey together, reaffirming the importance of inclusivity in shaping the future of our industry. We eagerly anticipate welcoming you back in November.”
If you want to get involved or learn more about DIFF then email danielle.moore@ae3media.co.uk.
Anna is currently the deputy editor for Mortgage Solutions and editor for Specialist Lending Solutions. She has worked as a journalist since 2019, having secured her Gold Standard NCTJ diploma from News Associates in a fast-track six-month course.
She started her career as a report at specialist publication The Insurance Insider covering a wide range of areas before joining Mortgage Solutions and Specialist Lending Solutions in 2021.
In her role, she helps put together and structure the news agenda for the day and writes up press releases, reports, interviews, analyses and exclusives across both titles. She also commissions blogs for Specialist Lending Solutions and hosts online masterclasses and in-person events across the business.
She has been shortlisted for three journalism awards, which include BIBA Journalist and Media Awards Scoop of Year Award in 2020, Headline Money Mortgage Journalist of the Year Award (B2B) in 2022 and 2023.
Prior to being a journalist, Anna worked in ecommerce across Snow + Rock, Cycle Surgery and Runners Need websites, and before that worked at specialist financial PR firm Rostrum.
In her spare time, Anna enjoys reading, seeing live music, and cooking for friends and family. When she gets a chance, she also enjoys hiking, skiing and indoor rock climbing.
