Clyde and Co, a leading global law firm, has been announced as the diamond sponsor for the upcoming UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Festival and Awards, set to take place on July 24-25th at the University of Northampton Waterside Campus. The firm’s sponsorship highlights its commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within organisations and communities.

The UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Festival and Awards, a flagship event dedicated to celebrating and advancing diversity and inclusion, will be hosted at the University of Northampton Waterside Campus. Clyde and Co’s support as the diamond sponsor signifies its dedication to promoting DEI initiatives and creating inclusive environments.

Alan Holmes, Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Clyde and Co, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “At Clyde and Co, we believe in the power of diversity and inclusion to drive innovation, creativity, and success for our people, firm and clients. We are proud to support the UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Festival and Awards as it aligns with one of our core values of celebrating difference.”

In addition to their role as the diamond sponsor, Clyde and Co will also serve as category sponsors for the Inclusion in Sustainability Award, recognising organisations that demonstrate outstanding commitment to integrating DEI in sustainability practices.

Moreover, Clyde and Co will host the “Curiosity and DEI Conversations” drinks reception, providing attendees with an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion in a relaxed setting.

Lydiah Igweh, advisory board member of the UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Festival and Awards, emphasised the significance of Clyde and Co’s sponsorship, stating, “We are thrilled to have Clyde and Co as our diamond sponsor and category sponsor for the Inclusion in Sustainability Award. Their partnership highlights the importance of collaboration in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.”

The UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Festival and Awards aims to unite individuals, organisations, and communities to celebrate diversity and inclusion achievements while fostering dialogue and collaboration for meaningful progress.

Many of us face the challenge of overcoming imposter syndrome. UnderOne had the privilege of conversing with Advisory Board member and spoken word poet Amerah Saleh, who shared her invaluable perspectives and strategies for overcoming this universal hurdle. Through her experiences and insights, Amerah sheds light on the intricacies of imposter syndrome and offers guidance on harnessing inner strength to triumph over its stifling grip.

UnderOne: Amerah, thank you for sharing your insights with us today. Could you elaborate on the challenges you’ve faced in the arts sector, particularly regarding imposter syndrome?

Amerah: Imposter syndrome has been a significant hurdle in my journey within the arts sector, despite possessing the skills and qualifications necessary for success. My lived experiences, which are not validated by any formal degree, often left me feeling inadequate and doubting my abilities in creative spaces. To overcome this, I’ve found myself working twice as hard to prove myself.

I’ve struggled with feeling like an imposter in rooms filled with talented individuals who may not share my background or experiences. To combat this, I’ve developed coping mechanisms, including what I call my “inner white man” persona. It’s a mask I put on to boost my confidence and courage, allowing me to speak up, apply for opportunities, and participate in meetings. While it’s helped me navigate these spaces, it’s also a reminder of the systemic challenges that individuals like me face in the arts sector.

UnderOne: Your experience sheds light on a pervasive issue in the arts industry. How do you think diversity and inclusion efforts can address imposter syndrome and promote a more inclusive environment?

Amerah: One of the biggest challenges is the lack of validation for lived experiences. Arts organisations tend to prioritise formal qualifications over diverse perspectives, exacerbating imposter syndrome among individuals from marginalised communities. To overcome this, we need to foster inclusive environments and provide mentorship and support networks to validate and empower those grappling with imposter syndrome.

However, I believe that by fostering inclusive environments and recognising the expertise inherent in lived experiences, the arts sector can begin to address imposter syndrome. Mentorship programmes and support networks are crucial for providing guidance, encouragement, and validation to individuals grappling with imposter syndrome. Additionally, creating spaces where diverse perspectives are respected and celebrated can help combat feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.

UnderOne: How do you believe diversity and inclusion efforts within the arts sector can contribute to broader societal change and cultural transformation?

Amerah: By promoting diversity and inclusion in artistic representations, I believe the arts sector can provide platforms for marginalised voices and communities to be heard and seen. This increased representation helps challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and foster empathy and understanding across different groups within society.

Inclusive arts initiatives empower individuals from underrepresented groups, including myself, by providing us with opportunities for creative expression and self-representation. By amplifying diverse narratives and experiences, the arts empower marginalised communities to assert our agency, challenge social norms, and advocate for change on our own terms.

I’ve witnessed firsthand how embracing diversity in the arts encourages cultural exchange and appreciation, enriching society’s understanding of different traditions, histories, and worldviews. By celebrating the richness of cultural diversity, the arts sector promotes cross-cultural understanding and solidarity, fostering a more inclusive and interconnected global community.

UnderOne: It’s clear that the arts sector plays a pivotal role in driving positive societal change. How do you envision the future of diversity and inclusion in the industry?

Amerah: I believe that diversity and inclusion efforts within the arts sector can influence broader policy discussions and advocacy efforts aimed at addressing systemic inequalities and injustices. By highlighting the social and economic value of diverse artistic expressions, arts organisations can advocate for policies that support equitable funding, access to resources, and representation across cultural and creative industries.

I am hopeful that the arts sector can play a significant role in driving positive societal change, fostering greater inclusion and equity, and contributing to a more vibrant and interconnected world.

Book your ticket to see Amerah perform live at UnderOne Festival. Get a ticket.

We are thrilled to announce our creative sponsor for the upcoming UnderOne Festival – none other than the pioneering spoken word organisation, Apples and Snakes! 

 As trailblazers in the realm of spoken word, Apples and Snakes bring together diverse voices in unique ways, crafting experiences that inspire and captivate audiences. With a mission to support poets at all stages of their careers, Apples and Snakes stands as England’s leading spoken word poetry organisation. Their commitment to championing collaborative opportunities ensures that unheard voices are not just heard but celebrated! 

 Over the years, Apples and Snakes has proudly collaborated with many organisations, from BAC to the BBC, and now, they join us at the UnderOne Festival to continue their mission of amplifying creative voices. 

 Let’s meet some of the extraordinary artists who will grace the UnderOne Festival stage: 

 Amerah Saleh 

Hailing from Birmingham, Amerah Saleh is a spoken word artist whose work taps into themes of identity, womanhood, religion, and belonging. Co-founder of Verve Poetry Press, Amerah’s performances have captivated audiences across Europe, and her collection “I Am Not From Here” speaks volumes about her passion for inspiring change through words. 

 Kat Francois 

A trailblazer in her own right, Kat Francois made history as the first person to win a televised poetry slam in the UK. With an illustrious career spanning stage plays to comedy shows, Kat continues to push boundaries with her impactful work. Kat’s play “Raising Lazarus” has garnered global acclaim, shedding light on the experiences of Caribbean soldiers in World War One. 

 Joelle Taylor 

With four collections of poetry in the bag, including the award-winning “C+NTO & Othered Poems,” Joelle Taylor’s impact on the spoken word scene is undeniable. A Poetry Fellow of the University of East Anglia and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, Joelle’s work transcends borders, captivating audiences from Australia to Brazil. 

 Join us as we celebrate the power of creative expression with Amerah, Kat, Joelle, and more at UnderOne Festival 2024. Get your tickets now for an unforgettable experience! 

 Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to witness the magic of spoken word poetry and support the vibrant creative community. See you at the festival! 

As the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day, UnderOne Festival, proudly supported by Warner Bros. Discovery, has announced a dynamic lineup of female speakers who will take the stage at the University of Northampton, 24^th – 25^th July 2024. From visionary entrepreneurs to global leaders and change-makers, these women represent a diverse range of backgrounds and perspectives, united by their commitment to driving positive change and empowering others.

“To coincide with International Womens’ Day, we are thrilled to announce our lineup of global speakers for the UnderOne Festival,” said Dr Asif Sadiq MBE, Chief DEI Officer at Warner Bros. Discovery and Advisory Board member at UnderOne Festival.  “These remarkable women are leaders in their fields, trailblazers in their communities, and champions of diversity and inclusion. We are honoured to have them join us and share their insights, experiences, and visions for a more equitable and inclusive world.”

Among the highlights of the festival’s lineup are:

Professor Anne-Marie Kilday: Professor Anne-Marie Kilday is Vice Chancellor and Professor of Criminal History at the University of Northampton. As Vice Chancellor, she brings visionary leadership and a commitment to excellence in education, research, and community engagement. Professor Kilday’s passion for advancing knowledge and fostering innovation has made her a respected figure in higher education, inspiring students, faculty, and stakeholders alike. Her dedication to academic excellence and inclusive leadership continues to drive positive change and shape the future of the University of Northampton and beyond.

María del Mar Galcerán Gadea: María del Mar Galcerán Gadea made history as the first politician with Down syndrome to secure a seat in the Corts Valencianes. Her groundbreaking achievement marks a significant milestone in the realm of political inclusivity and representation. María brings a unique perspective and unwavering determination to her role, advocating for the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities. Her historic election serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for marginalised communities worldwide, showcasing the power of perseverance and breaking barriers in pursuit of equality and representation. Highlighting her inspiration for participating in this global event, Maria said, “My interest in participating in this event is to be able to transmit my personal experience and send encouragement and strength to families with children with disabilities and to people with disabilities themselves so that they fight to achieve their challenges, their goals because having a disability does not mean that we do not have abilities.”

Sanchia Alasia: Sanchia Alasia is a multi-award-winning and distinguished global Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) practitioner, public speaker, and community change-maker with a reputation for driving systematic and sustainable change towards fostering inclusive environments. Currently Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at London South Bank University, Sanchia said, “I was inspired to speak at the UnderOne Festival as I want to motivate others to innovate and develop their business values, into a healthy inclusive culture.”

Lucile Kamar: As former Head of Diversity and Inclusion at ITN, Lucile is a forward-thinking and award-winning Diversity & Inclusion leader, Keynote Speaker and Leadership Coach, with over a decade of experience leading diversity and inclusion in male-dominated industries.

Lucile commented: “In a world where there’s information overload, the UnderOne Festival’s carefully curated agenda as well as the diverse range of expert speaker in their field promises a meaningful and uplifting event”

Samantha Owo: Samantha is a Senior Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Lead at Lloyds Banking Group, the first FTSE company to establish gender and ethnicity goals to improve the representation of women, Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic colleagues in senior positions, also the first UK Bank committed to double colleagues with disabilities in senior roles by 2025, to reflect the society we serve.

Sybil Taunton: Sybil is a former U.S. Air Force Veteran and the current Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), where she is responsible for the development and delivery of the RICS Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategy for roughly 700 employees and more than 135,000 surveying professionals globally. Commenting on the importance of the festival, Sybil said, “It’s inspiring to see more and more organisations recognising the power of collective and collaborative action when it comes to diversity, equity and inclusion. Together, we are so much stronger and can achieve much more meaningful, impactful and lasting change.”

The UnderOne Festival is a premier gathering of thought leaders, innovators, and influencers focused on advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and beyond. With a theme of “Unity Unleashed: Creating a Global Culture of Inclusivity,” the festival aims to spark meaningful conversations, inspire action, and foster connections worldwide.

“We believe in the power of diverse voices and perspectives to drive positive change and create a more inclusive world,” added Dr Sadiq. “As we celebrate International Women’s Day and honour the achievements of women everywhere, we invite everyone to join us at the UnderOne Festival in July, where we will come together to learn, connect, and inspire each other.”

Hear from all of our speakers at the DEI event of the summer!  Get your tickets HERE for UnderOne Festival 2024.

With the dawn of the holy month of Ramadan, workplaces worldwide are reminded of the significance of diversity and inclusion, especially in accommodating the needs of Muslim employees. This guide offers perspectives on fostering inclusive environments and honouring diverse traditions. 

Understanding Ramadan in the Global Context 

Ramadan stands as a time of spiritual reflection, fasting, and acts of charity for Muslims globally. It holds deep cultural and communal significance, fostering unity, compassion, and cultural exchange. Observing fasting, engaging in prayer, and partaking in shared iftar meals are integral parts of this month. 

The Significance of Diversity and Inclusion 

Celebrating diversity and embracing inclusion are intrinsic values in multicultural workplaces. Recognising the cultural diversity of the workforce and upholding principles of respect, understanding, and acceptance is essential. Creating inclusive spaces during Ramadan honours the religious observances of Muslim employees while fostering a sense of belonging and harmony. 

Practical Strategies for Inclusivity 

• Offer comprehensive training programmes on cultural awareness and sensitivity, educating employees about the significance of Ramadan and providing insights into Muslim customs and traditions. 
• Implement flexible working hours to accommodate fasting schedules and prayer times, allowing employees the flexibility to manage their religious obligations alongside professional responsibilities. 
• Organise inclusive Iftar gatherings, virtual Iftars, or cultural workshops to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan and promote cross-cultural exchange among colleagues. 
• Foster a workplace culture rooted in empathy, respect, and understanding. Encourage open dialogue and mutual respect, creating an environment where employees feel valued and supported irrespective of their religious affiliations. 

Sharing Best Practices 

Several organisations around the world have implemented inclusive Iftar experiences and prayer facilities for their diverse workforce. Multinational corporations have effectively accommodated employees during Ramadan through flexible work arrangements and cultural awareness programmes. 

As we prepare to gather at the UnderOne Festival this summer, let us reaffirm our commitment to building workplaces that reflect unity, tolerance, and inclusivity. Together, we can create environments where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 

Ramadan Kareem to all, and may this month inspire us to embrace diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our lives. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to gain actionable insights and join the conversation on fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace at the UnderOne Festival 2024. Get your tickets HERE!

As we commemorate International Women’s Day, Kim Sabate, the Founder of TRANSetter, shares her empowering message for aspiring women leaders and change-makers.

TRANSetter is a service designed to help transgender women express their authentic selves and feel confident in their appearance.

“Women possess immense power, capability, and worth to achieve their dreams,” Kim emphasises. “They can positively impact the world and inspire others to do the same.” Recognising the collective strength of women, she highlights the importance of solidarity and support from millions of women who have fought for equality and justice. Kim believes that women are the legacy of those who challenged the status quo, broke barriers, and paved the way for future generations.

In envisioning the role of women in leadership and innovation, Kim emphasises the need for greater representation in traditionally male-dominated fields. “The world needs more women in leadership and innovation positions,” she asserts, citing the unique perspectives and skills women bring to the table. Kim envisions a future where women have equal opportunities for career advancement, supported by inclusive policies, programmes, and networks.

To achieve this vision, Kim advocates for organisational commitment to promoting gender equality and diversity in the workplace. She emphasises the importance of regular assessment, clear goals, and inclusive practices to address bias and discrimination. By fostering an inclusive culture that values diversity and celebrates achievements, organisations can create a better future for everyone.

Reflecting on her personal journey, Kim shares a pivotal moment that shaped her leadership path. “Coming out as a transwoman in a male-dominated oil & gas industry was one of the most challenging and rewarding decisions of my life,” she reveals. Encouraged by the acceptance and support of her colleagues, Kim found the courage to live authentically, leading to newfound levels of leadership and innovation. Her journey inspires others to embrace their identity and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive society.

Kim Sabate’s leadership journey exemplifies resilience, courage, and commitment to driving positive change. As an advocate for gender equality and inclusion, she continues to inspire others to break barriers and create a more inclusive world.

To learn more about Kim Sabate and her inspiring journey, visit the speaker section of our website.

Get your tickets to join us at the UnderOne Festival on July 24th – 25th, 2024, at the University of Northampton, where Kim and many other inspiring voices will share their insights and experiences on driving positive change.