True Diversity feat. Léa Guzzo

As part of our True Divesity blog series we caught up with Léa Guzzo, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Consultant.

In this blog Léa highlights the vital role of diversity and inclusion in building thriving, equitable workplaces, featuring insights from an EDI expert committed to driving systemic change through practical, data-driven strategies.

Let’s start with the need for Diversity and Inclusion, what’s your take – why is it so important?

Plenty of reasons! Workplaces should reflect our population and everyone should be given the opportunity to deliver their best at work and be themselves. I care deeply about creating cultures where staff wellbeing matters. In my opinion, this can only happen when you create an inclusive work culture. Everything is interlinked. From an employer’s perspective, it’s not only the right thing to do, it also makes business sense: businesses that are diverse and inclusive are more likely to be successful, productive and resilient. For these reasons, the case is clear: it’s a win-win for everyone.

What do you consider potential consequences of a lack of Diversity and Inclusion?

I think it’s dangerous on multiple levels.  First, if you have a lack of diversity in your business, that means you are not capitalising on all the talent out there. It also means that your business is more likely to be less innovative, creative and risk-averse. Furthermore, I think it’s important to make a distinction between diversity and inclusion. I often find this becomes a crucial realisation for leaders as they begin to engage more deeply with this work. They start by thinking that having diversity is enough. Unfortunately, it is not. You can have a diverse workforce and yet, people don’t feel included. They may lack the psychological safety to voice a dissenting opinion, ask a challenging question, or admit a mistake without fear of being penalised or humiliated. This is where innovation dies and where wellbeing is impacted. That’s why inclusive cultures are critical. In fact, I advise working first on building an inclusive culture and then focusing on diversity, because if you hire talent and they leave because your work culture is not inclusive and positive, then you have lost everything.

Can you share a little bit more about what you do – what’s the purpose and mission of your organisation?

Sure! I support progressive organisations and leaders to build more equitable and inclusive workplaces by translating EDI principles into practical, data-driven actions. My mission is to make systemic change both achievable and sustainable through my bespoke support, whether that’s through in-depth EDI audits, developing an action plan together, delivering engaging EDI training/workshops, mentoring you, or facilitating courageous conversations with your team. Everything I do centres on an intersectional lens and a collaborative approach, so people feel valued, heard and able to do their best work. Finally, with a dash of creativity and positivity, I ensure the journey is as engaging as it is impactful.

How can businesses and potential employers get involved with your organisation?

Simple! You can just drop me an email (hello@LeaGuzzo.com) and then we can organise a chat. It’s always great to start with a short conversation so I can understand your needs, check that I’m the right match for you and advise you on the next course of action. I really care about my clients, and my approach is bespoke, data-driven, creative and focused on delivering the impact you want to see within your current resources. So feel free to check my website: www.leaguzzo.com. Before I forget, I also offer a FREE EDI audit, so in less than 10 minutes you can get a sense of which areas you may need to focus on next.

If you are a part of an initiative, brand or company that proactively champions diversity and would like to be featured as part of the “True Diversity” series please get in touch with Tony.

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