DEI Fundamentals with SJ Simpson Joseph

Introduction

• Presenter: SJ Simpson Joseph, aka Jay
• Host: Anne from Excelibrate
• Context: Jay worked with Excelibrate's president Steve Heckler on a non-profit project in Atlanta.
• Session Info:
  • Being recorded for YouTube
  • Available on excelibrate.com
  • Email with presentation will be sent after the session

About Excelibrate

• Teaching various technologies for almost 20 years
• Offers a wide range of courses:
  • Programming
  • Data Science
  • Microsoft Products
  • Robotics Process Automation
  • AWS DevOps
  • Javascript Libraries
• DEI courses are a part of their offerings

About Jay

• Attorney, Stanford Law School graduate
• Over 20 years of experience in transformation management
• Specializes in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
• Named DEI Leader of the Year 2021 by the Global Association of Talent Development
• Advisor to corporations, federal/state governments, non-profits
• Uses methodology of critical thinking and creative solutions

Key Concepts in DEI

• Diversity: What makes each of us different
  • Inclusive definition includes age, ethnicity, parental status, etc.
  • Encourages the view that each person is unique and adds value
• Equity: Ensuring all have the same opportunities
  • Distinction between equality and equity highlighted through visuals
• Inclusion: Creating a safe space where everyone feels valued
  • Importance of recognizing and overcoming biases

Workshop Intentions

• Understand core DEI concepts
• Define benefits of DEI initiatives
• Encourage a collective understanding of DEI definitions
• Explore the ROI of DEI in terms of team building, productivity, etc.

DEI Heart Strides

• Recognition that transformation involves both heart and mind
• Incorporating empathy and understanding in leadership and team building

Practical Application

• Building inspired teams
• Better communication and recruitment
• Improving productivity and profitability
• Developing problem-solving and customer loyalty

Challenges and Benefits

• DEI practices can be difficult to grasp but are essential for growth
• They are not only about social good but also about enhancing corporate performance

Questions and Answers

• How to launch a culture of empathy
• Ensuring DEI is embedded in organizations, not just an add-on
• Creating DEI councils or committees within organizations to champion practices

Course Offerings

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Demystified
• DEI: The Practitioner
• DEI Heart Strides
• Bridge to Global Diversity

Conclusion

• Jay encourages everyone to respect and support diverse voices
• Acknowledgement of challenges in embedding DEI
• Invitation to participate in further courses and workshops for deeper understanding and practical implementation