Unite UnderOne is delighted to announce Clyde & Co as the Headline Sponsor for the UnderOne Festival & Awards 2025 and a Founding Partner of the UnderOne Collective. This partnership reflects Clyde & Co’s ongoing commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) globally and solidifies their leadership in driving systemic change across industries.

Clyde & Co’s sponsorship underscores their dedication to supporting impactful initiatives, including the highly anticipated UnderOne Festival and Awards 2025, taking place 10-11 July at our new venue, the Chicago Booth London Conference Centre. The festival and awards will bring together global leaders, changemakers, and professionals to celebrate excellence in DEI through inspiring speakers, actionable workshops, and a prestigious awards ceremony.

As a Founding Partner of the UnderOne Collective, Clyde & Co will play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and bold action, authentic belonging, and lasting change among global organisations committed to measurable DEI progress. The collective creates a platform for our changemakers to share best practices, engage in regional webinars, and participate in virtual meetups. Clyde & Co’s support will also power key activities such as showcasing regional DEI leadership in EMEA, APAC, NORAM, and LATAM.

Alan Holmes, Global Head of DEI at Clyde & Co and a member of the UnderOne Advisory Board, shared his thoughts on the partnership:

“We are honoured to serve as the Headline Sponsor for the UnderOne Festival & Awards 2025 and as a Founding Partner of the UnderOne Collective. We share a deep affinity with the purpose and mission of UnderOne as a catalyst for advancing DEI across industries. We look forward to continuing to grow our partnership and welcome others to join us in building a strong community for change.”

Clyde & Co has been a steadfast supporter of Unite UnderOne since its inception, helping shape its vision and programmes. Their leadership will continue to ensure the pledge’s impact resonates across diverse regions, empowering organisations to take actionable steps in their DEI journeys.

This partnership with Clyde & Co marks a significant milestone for Unite UnderOne as it continues to expand its mission to empower DEI excellence worldwide.

Unite UnderOne is delighted to announce that nominations for the 2025 UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Awards has officially opened. This annual celebration, now in its second year, honours individuals, teams, and organisations that are driving meaningful progress in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across industries.

12 Categories Recognising Excellence in DEI 

This year, the awards feature twelve categories, reflecting DEI initiatives’ growing depth and diversity across sectors. We are thrilled to introduce three new categories for 2025:

• Wellbeing Champion: Honouring individuals or organisations that prioritise mental health and wellness in the workplace, creating environments where employees can thrive.
• DEI Talent Acquisition: Recognising exceptional efforts in attracting, hiring, and retaining diverse talent, setting benchmarks for inclusive recruitment practices.
• DEI Celebrity Champion: Celebrating public figures who leverage their platforms to advocate for equity, inclusion, and social change, inspiring others to take action.

These new categories join the existing nine, which include:

• Global Inclusion Excellence Award
• Trailblazer Employee Resource Group Award
• DEI Innovation Award
• DEI Rising Star Award
• Inclusion in Sustainability Award
• DEI Thought Leader and Influencer Award
• Diverse & Inclusive Company Culture Award
• Creative Diversity Campaign Award
• Social Impact & Community Engagement Award

Last year, the awards showcased an incredible array of talent and dedication. Winners and shortlisted organisations included names like Petrofac, Ardonagh, Equal Measures UK, Pan Macmillan, and Media Zoo. Their innovative initiatives ranged from empowering women in engineering and creating inclusive cultures to addressing food sustainability and neurodiversity awareness.

Spotlighting Excellence: A Look Back at 2024 

The 2024 winners demonstrated the breadth and impact of DEI efforts across industries. For instance, Petrofac, winner of the Global Inclusion Excellence Award, made significant strides in advancing gender balance in the energy sector through their SHINE network. Ardonagh’s Disability Colleague Community took home the Trailblazer Employee Resource Group Award for their transformative workplace initiatives, while Equal Measures UK earned the DEI Innovation Award for their groundbreaking efforts in diversifying the drinks industry.

Such stories continue to inspire us as we prepare to recognise the 2025 nominees who are breaking barriers and creating lasting impact.

How to Submit Nominations for UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Awards

Nominations for the UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Awards are open to individuals, teams, and organisations across all sectors. Nominees may self-nominate or be nominated by colleagues, peers, or partners. Detailed criteria for each category and instructions on submitting nominations will be available on our website from 21 February 2025.

Key dates to remember:

• Nominations Open: 21st February 2025
• Nominations Close: 14th April 2025
• Shortlist Announced: Week commencing May 19th 2025
• Awards Ceremony: 11th July 2025

Why Nominate?

The UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Awards provide a platform to showcase the incredible work being done to advance DEI worldwide. Winning or being shortlisted for an award not only recognises your efforts but also inspires others to follow your lead, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

Join Us for the UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Awards, A Day of Inspiration and Celebration.

The awards ceremony, proudly powered by Clyde & Co as the Headline Sponsor and Founding Partner of the UnderOne Collective, will spotlight the achievements of this year’s DEI champions. Their stories of innovation, perseverance, and impact will serve as a source of inspiration for attendees from around the globe.

Don’t miss this opportunity to recognise and celebrate the individuals and organisations driving real change in DEI. Save the date for 11 July 2025 at the Chicago Booth London Conference Centre and join us for a day of connection, learning, and celebration.

For more information about the awards and to submit your nomination, visit www.uniteunderone.com/awards

We are thrilled to announce that the Chicago Booth London Conference Centre will be the official venue for the UnderOne Festival and Diversity and Inclusion Awards 2025. This iconic setting perfectly aligns with our vision to celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) excellence in a space that inspires collaboration, innovation and celebration. By hosting the events at the Chicago Booth London Conference Centre, we aim to honour the achievements of individuals and organisations breaking barriers and driving progress in DEI.

Taking place on 10 July 2025, the UnderOne Festival will bring together leaders, changemakers, and organisations from across the globe for a transformative day of inspiring speakers and actionable workshops. The prestigious Global UnderOne D&I Awards ceremony on 11 July 2025 will honour fearless champions and organisations leading the way in integrating DEI values into their DNA and society.

A Venue Committed to Excellence and Inclusion

The Chicago Booth London Conference Centre embodies a commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusivity, reflecting the values of its global community. Dedicated to fostering a diverse and equitable environment, the centre champions accessibility and collaboration, ensuring all individuals feel respected and empowered. Aligned with the University of Chicago Booth School of Business’s mission, it supports initiatives like the Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan, promoting inclusive leadership, diverse recruitment and equitable practices. Its BREEAM-certified facilities—recognised for sustainable design—underscore its dedication to responsibility and progress, creating a space where diverse perspectives thrive and contribute to meaningful dialogue and growth.

The university’s ethos of inclusivity aligns seamlessly with the mission of Unite UnderOne. Hosting the UnderOne Festival and D&I Awards 2025 at a venue that shares these values underscores our dedication to creating meaningful change and recognising those who lead the way in DEI.

A Global Gathering at Chicago Booth London Conference Centre in the Heart of Central London

Located a stone’s throw from the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Chicago Booth London Conference Centre offers the perfect blend of history and modernity, making it an ideal venue to host a diverse and dynamic audience. Its accessible location ensures ease of travel for both local and international attendees, further supporting our mission to create a truly global platform for DEI leadership. The university’s expansive and versatile facilities will allow us to accommodate engaging sessions, networking opportunities, and the celebratory atmosphere that makes the UnderOne Festival and D&I Awards unique.

Unite UnderOne Powered by Clyde & Co

Clyde & Co, our Headline Sponsor and a Founding Partner of the UnderOne Collective, proudly power the 2025 event. With their steadfast commitment to advancing DEI on a global scale, Clyde & Co continues to support initiatives that drive meaningful progress. Their partnership ensures that the UnderOne Festival & Awards 2025 will celebrate achievements and inspire future action across industries.

From engaging sessions led by thought leaders to meaningful networking opportunities, the UnderOne Festival & Awards 2025 promises to be our most impactful event yet. The event will feature a carefully curated agenda designed to equip attendees with actionable strategies and insights to advance DEI within their organisations and communities.

Join Us at the Chicago Booth London Conference Centre

We can’t wait to welcome you to the Chicago Booth London Conference Centre to celebrate the remarkable individuals and organisations driving progress in DEI. This event is more than just a celebration; it’s a call to action and a platform for collaboration. Together, we will honour those making strides in DEI while inspiring others to join the movement.

Stay tuned for more updates on speakers, the full agenda, and ticket information and don’t forget to nominate! Mark your calendars for 10 – 11 July 2025, and join us for a day of inspiration, connection, and celebration in a setting that reflects our shared commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion!

 

The inaugural UnderOne Global Diversity and Inclusion Festival on July 24-25 2024 held at the University of Northampton’s Waterside Campus was a remarkable event that brought together diverse voices from across the globe to advance the crucial work of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Founded by Lydiah Igweh, this festival was more than just a gathering; it was a powerful testament to what can be achieved when we unite under the shared goal of fostering a world where diversity is celebrated and inclusion is the norm.

Lydiah reflected on the profound sense of purpose that drove the creation of UnderOne. The festival was born from a vision to create a safe space where everyone feels valued, and its mission was clear: to unite diverse voices and ignite meaningful change through innovation, empathy, kindness, and collaboration. This vision came to life over two days filled with inspiring conversations, engaging sessions, and thought-provoking discussions.

The event was supported by headline sponsors Warner Bros. Discovery and diamond sponsor Clyde & Co, along with a host of supporting partners and passionate attendees. The success of this inaugural event has laid the groundwork for a movement that will continue to grow and inspire. The importance of this work cannot be overstated in today’s world, where embracing our differences is key to building a stronger, more cohesive society.

Alan Holmes, Head of Diversity and Inclusion at Clyde & Co, shared his thoughts on the event, stating,

“Clyde & Co. were delighted to sponsor the inaugural UnderOne Festival and Awards this year. Both the festival and awards were a fantastic opportunity to bring together thought leaders and build a united approach to develop more inclusive workplaces and communities. The festival’s energy was palpable and acts as a great springboard for professions in the diversity, equity and inclusion space to continue their great work with the deserved recognition.”

A Snapshot of UnderOne Festival 2024

The festival was packed with over 60 sessions, including keynotes, panels, forums, interactive workshops, wellness activities, and live poetry. It brought together a global community from Finland, Germany, Ireland, Spain, Japan, North America, the UK, and beyond, representing over 15 industry sectors. The event also proudly showcased 25 exhibitors led by underestimated founders, in collaboration with Diversity X VC, highlighting the importance of providing platforms for often-overlooked voices.

More than 350 attendees, both in person and online, engaged with the content, and 98% rated the conference as excellent or very good. Attendees left inspired, with over 95% finding the festival offered content that was useful in their work. With over 50 thought-provoking speakers representing diverse identities and lived experiences, the festival set a high bar for future DEI events.

Insights and Key Takeaways

One of the standout moments of the festival was the keynote delivered by Dr. Asif Sadiq MBE, Chief DEI Officer at Warner Bros. Discovery. Dr. Sadiq emphasised that DEI is not a one-time solution but a continuous journey requiring ongoing commitment and adaptability. He highlighted that change will be a constant in DEI work, and organisations must focus on their “why”—the core purpose driving their initiatives—while staying aligned with their North Star. By grounding efforts in a clear sense of purpose, leaders can embed DEI deeply into organisational culture, ensuring it guides decisions and actions. Dr. Sadiq stressed the importance of maintaining DEI momentum by integrating it with business strategy and remaining authentic.

Asif Sadiq, Chief Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer at Warner Bros. Discovery, remarked,

“As the headline sponsor of the 2024 UnderOne Festival, we at WBD are proud to support this inspirational platform that champions diversity, equity & inclusion through innovative ideas and connection. Together we are creating a more inclusive future for everyone.”

The festival also featured discussions on bridging DEI with emerging technologies, led by Gori Yahaya, Founder & CEO of Upskill Universe. This forum explored the intersectionality of DEI and tech, emphasising the need for ethical considerations in adopting AI and other innovations. The future outlook for AI in everyday life was discussed, showcasing its role in transforming job recruitment, education, and social media, with both significant benefits and challenges.

Another highlight was the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) forum, led by Leonia Goromba, Global Early Careers & Inclusion Manager at Informa Connect. The discussion focused on aligning DEI with sustainability goals, stressing that corporate social responsibility (CSR) should extend beyond compliance to genuinely support social and environmental objectives. The forum highlighted the importance of aligning DEI efforts with an organisation’s core values and the need for strategic approaches to achieve long-term sustainability goals.

The festival also emphasised the importance of cultural integration in reshaping organisational culture. Key speakers underscored the role of DEI education and exposure in fostering inclusivity, particularly for homogeneous communities. The establishment of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) for issues like menopause and mental health was highlighted as vital for promoting open discussions and driving cultural shifts within organisations. Regular diversity dialogue days were encouraged to help employees bring their authentic selves to work, though ongoing efforts are needed to sustain these initiatives.

Breaking Barriers and Championing Inclusivity

One of the most impactful sessions was the bilingual Fireside Chat titled “Breaking Barriers and Championing Inclusivity,” featuring María del Mar Galcerán Gadea, Spain’s first-ever parliamentarian with Down syndrome, and Francisco Gallego, Global Inclusion and Diversity Manager at Expedia Group (Spain). María shared her journey of resilience and advocacy, emphasising that disabled people are not limited by their disabilities but by the limitations placed on them by society. She spoke about how her brother helped her realise her potential by introducing her to his friends and expanding her network. A key takeaway from this discussion was María’s belief that “talent is everywhere, but opportunities are not.” She is deeply committed to creating more inclusive experiences for disabled people in Spain, working to ensure that society removes the barriers that limit their opportunities.

Amplifying Diverse Voices Through Poetry

The collaboration with Apples and Snakes aimed to amplify diverse voices and lived experiences through spoken word. By bringing together poets and industry leaders, the mission was to foster learning, inspire change, and create a more inclusive and human world through the power of creative expression. Lisa Mead, CEO of Apples and Snakes, reflected on the event, saying,

“UnderOne was an amazing event full of energy, warmth, and commitment fuelled by people determined to create a world that is more diverse and inclusive, and a bit more human! I personally loved seeing the reaction that the poets inspired and how through collaborating across industries, we can learn from each other and together make change happen.”

Looking Ahead

As the first UnderOne Global Diversity and Inclusion Festival concludes, the collective voice of our community emphasises the urgent need for action beyond words. Attendees highlighted the importance of implementing concrete DEI strategies with clear, measurable goals and accountability. Authenticity and kindness must underpin our efforts, fostering genuine inclusion and compassion. Strengthening community ties and supporting each other is crucial, as is prioritising well-being to sustain our long-term efforts. Together, we can transform insights into tangible actions, creating a world where diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just ideals, but realities.

A Call to Action

The journey towards a more inclusive world does not end here. We invite you to continue this important work by exploring our manifesto paper, where we delve deeper into the themes and takeaways from the festival. Let’s continue to work together, fostering a world where everyone can thrive, just as they are.

Thank you for being a part of this journey.

Racial equality in the workplace remains a pressing issue, with recent statistics revealing both progress and persistent challenges. In the UK and around the globe, efforts to create inclusive environments are ongoing, yet disparities in employment opportunities, pay, and workplace treatment continue to reflect deeper societal inequities. The murder of George Floyd in May 2020 and the subsequent global protests highlighted systemic racism and intensified the call for racial equality across all sectors, including the workplace.

The State of Racial Equality in the Workplace

According to a 2023 report by the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS), ethnic minorities in the UK are still underrepresented in higher-paying occupations and overrepresented in lower-paying sectors. Black employees, for instance, are less likely to hold senior roles compared to their white counterparts. Additionally, the pay gap between white employees and employees from ethnic minorities remains significant, with Black workers earning an average of 9% less than their white peers.

Globally, the situation is similar. A 2022 study by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) highlighted that racial minorities in many countries face higher unemployment rates and lower wages than the majority population. In the United States, for example, the median weekly earnings of Black and Hispanic workers were reported to be significantly lower than those of white workers.

The Role of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

One of the most effective tools for promoting racial equality in the workplace is the establishment and support of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). These groups, also known as staff networks, are employee-led organisations that focus on fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. ERGs provide a platform for employees from underrepresented groups to share their experiences, network, and advocate for changes within the organisation.

ERGs play a crucial role in several ways

Advocacy and Awareness

ERGs raise awareness about racial issues within the company and advocate for policies that promote equality and inclusion. They often work closely with management to develop and implement diversity initiatives.

Support and Mentorship

These groups offer support and mentorship opportunities, helping minority employees manage their careers and overcome barriers to advancement.

Community Building

ERGs foster a sense of community and belonging among employees, which can lead to higher job satisfaction and retention rates.

The Importance of Continued Efforts

Despite the presence of ERGs and increased attention to diversity, the journey towards racial equality in the workplace is far from complete. The global outcry following George Floyd’s death underscored the urgency of addressing systemic racism. Employers must continue to prioritise and invest in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This includes regular training on unconscious bias, transparent recruitment and promotion processes, and a commitment to equitable pay.

Furthermore, it is essential for companies to collect and analyse data on their workforce composition and pay structures to identify and address disparities. Regularly reporting this data can hold organisations accountable and drive progress.

Achieving true equality requires sustained effort and commitment from both employers and employees. ERGs play a vital role in this journey, but they must be supported by comprehensive DEI strategies and a genuine commitment to change.

The legacy of George Floyd serves as a powerful reminder of the systemic racism that still exists and the work that remains to be done. As we reflect on the current state of racial equality in the workplace, it is clear that while significant strides have been made, there is still much work to be done. Only through continued dedication to inclusivity and fairness can we hope to create workplaces that truly reflect the diverse societies in which we live.

With Pride Month on the horizon, we highlight why diversity and inclusion are essential components of a successful and innovative workplace. Among the various facets of diversity, amplifying LGBTQ+ voices has become increasingly important. Ensuring that LGBTQ+ employees feel valued, respected, and included not only fosters a positive work environment but also drives business performance and creativity. This article explores the current state of LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace, the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ employees, and the strategies companies are adopting to create a more inclusive culture.

The Current Landscape

Despite significant progress in recent years, LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face unique challenges in the workplace. According to a 2023 report by the Human Rights Campaign, nearly half of LGBTQ+ workers remain closeted at work, fearing discrimination or negative repercussions. This highlights the ongoing need for companies to foster an environment where all employees feel safe to express their true selves.

Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Employees

LGBTQ+ employees often encounter various forms of discrimination and bias, both overt and subtle. These challenges can manifest in several ways:

• Microaggressions: Small, often unintentional comments or actions that can make LGBTQ+ employees feel marginalised.
• Lack of Representation: A shortage of LGBTQ+ role models and leaders within organisations.
• Fear of Retaliation: Concerns about being overlooked for promotions or facing hostility if they come out.
• Inadequate Policies: Insufficient workplace policies to protect against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

The Business Case for LGBTQ+ Inclusion

Research consistently shows that diverse and inclusive workplaces are more innovative and perform better financially. Companies that actively support LGBTQ+ inclusion benefit from higher employee engagement, retention, and productivity. Additionally, they attract a broader talent pool and enhance their reputation among consumers.

Strategies for Promoting LGBTQ+ Inclusion

Many organisations are taking proactive steps to create more inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ employees. Here are some effective strategies:

Comprehensive Anti-Discrimination Policies: Implementing and enforcing policies that explicitly prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Supporting ERGs for LGBTQ+ employees to provide a sense of community and advocacy within the company.

Diversity Training: Offering training programmes to educate all employees about LGBTQ+ issues and unconscious bias.

Inclusive Benefits: Providing benefits that address the needs of LGBTQ+ employees, such as healthcare coverage for same-sex partners and support for gender transition.

Visible Support from Leadership: Encouraging leaders to publicly advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion and to model inclusive behaviour.

Looking Ahead

The journey towards full LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace is ongoing. While progress has been made, there is still much work to be done. Companies must continue to listen to LGBTQ+ voices, address their unique challenges, and create environments where everyone can thrive.

By fostering an inclusive environment where LGBTQ+ employees feel valued and respected, companies can unlock the full potential of their workforce, drive innovation, and achieve greater success. As we move forward, it is crucial for businesses to continue championing LGBTQ+ inclusion and to create workplaces that celebrate diversity in all its forms.

Join the discussion, ‘Pride in Perspective: Voices of the LGBTQ+ Community’ on 24^th July at the UnderOne Festival.  Get your virtual or in-person tickets HERE.