✨🌈 This year we are highlighting LGBTQIA+ global leaders.
This week meet the fabulously, forward-thinking and inspirational thought leader, Toby Mildon, a Diversity and Inclusion Consultant from his own firm,MildonLtd.
Toby provides diversity and inclusion guidance to many companies. His focus is on developing diversity and inclusion strategies with senior HR leaders and delivering training that develops inclusive leaders.
What does Pride mean to you?
"In Toby's view, pride is the freedom and confidence to discuss sexuality openly in the workplace without fear of shame. It could mean being able to openly talk about what you and your same-sex partner did at the weekend in heteronormative work culture and not feeling ashamed of it."
What makes you feel empowered in the workplace?
"For Toby, empowerment means being trusted to deliver your work in a way you think is best for you, as well as working in a way that works for you. This allows your business to flourish as a result of individual success."
How can colleagues be allies in the workplace?
"Many colleagues can be allies in small ways, such as calling in microinequities when they spot them to ensure that you are okay; asking how your weekend went with your partner without judgement; or challenging policies that are not fair to LGBTQIA+ community members, such as equitable parental and family policies."
What can businesses do to empower the LGBTQIA+ community?
"By listening first, businesses can empower members of the LGBTQIA+ community. It is important to understand the experiences of LGBTQIA+ employees and identify barriers that prevent them from feeling as if they belong, are respected, empowered, or are able to advance in their roles. As a leader, it is your responsibility to remove these barriers, so that people can thrive."
Advice to your younger self
"In Toby's advice to his younger self, he would tell himself not to hide, that his sexuality is just as important as his disability, that he should be unashamed, and that he should come out as a teenager (and not wait until he is 29 years old)."
#PrideLeaders