Embracing DEAI Change Makers: A Catalyst for Transformation in Travel Businesses
Building Inclusive Travel Businesses Through Employee Advocacy
At Communicate Inclusively, we believe in fostering inclusive and equitable environments within organisations. The travel industry, with its focus on connecting people and cultures, is a prime candidate for a DEAI (Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion) revolution.
Recently, our CEO, Atlyn Forde, presented at the World Travel Market (WTM) DEAI Summit on the crucial role DEAI change-makers play in creating positive, lasting change within travel businesses.
For those who missed the presentation, this article offers key insights to inspire and empower travel professionals to champion DEAI in their workplaces.
What Does a Truly Inclusive Travel Industry Look Like?
We began by envisioning a truly inclusive travel industry. One where every traveler, regardless of background, feels welcome, enjoys accessible experiences, and encounters cultural sensitivity. But inclusivity extends beyond customer service; it fosters workplaces where all employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Who is a DEAI Change Maker?
A DEAI Change Maker is someone within your organisation who actively champions these principles. They identify and dismantle barriers to full participation and belonging. This might involve introducing inclusive policies, raising awareness of diverse perspectives, or implementing accessibility improvements. They foster environments where everyone feels valued, empowered, and respected for who they are. They lead by example, inspiring colleagues to embrace inclusivity as a shared responsibility, ultimately making a positive and lasting impact on both workplace culture and customer experiences
Why Travel Needs DEAI Change Makers
The UK travel industry, despite progress, faces significant challenges regarding workplace inclusion and diversity. Consider these sobering statistics:
Gender Representation: Only 19.7% of board positions in UK companies are held by women, revealing a significant gender gap in leadership.
Ethnic Diversity: Ethnic minorities make up 18.3% of the population in England and Wales but hold only 6% of management roles.
Disability Employment Gap: Non-disabled adults in the UK are more than twice as likely to be employed compared to disabled adults.
LGBTQ+ Inclusion: Almost half of LGBTQ+ employees in the UK report facing unfair treatment, highlighting the need for inclusive workplace cultures.
These figures underscore the urgency for change. DEAI Change Makers play a pivotal role in challenging biases, advocating for underrepresented groups, and creating inclusive practices that benefit both employees and customers.
Becoming a DEAI Change Maker: Your Step by Step Roadmap
Becoming a DEAI Change Maker requires commitment, strategic thinking, and collaboration. Here's how to get started:
Secure an Executive Sponsor: Having the support of a senior leader provides visibility and influence for your DEAI initiatives. They can advocate for your ideas, help secure resources, and open doors to decision-making spaces.
Invest in Expertise: Educate yourself on DEAI best practices, industry-specific issues, and inclusive strategies. Participate in training, join networks like the Inclusive Travel Forum (a sister organisation to Communicate Inclusively), and utilise available DEAI resources to strengthen your approach.
Develop a Strategic Plan: Outline a clear DEAI plan that aligns with your organisation's mission and objectives. Set measurable goals, identify key stakeholders, and map actionable steps. Taking a structured approach builds credibility, demonstrates impact, and helps track progress.
By following these steps, aspiring Change Makers can create meaningful, lasting change in their organisations, fostering more inclusive and responsive workplaces.
Supporting DEAI Change Makers
True inclusivity requires empowering DEAI Change Makers with tangible support. Here are ways organisations can help:
Create a Support Network: Establish employee resource groups or DEAI committees to foster a community where change-makers can connect, share experiences, and drive initiatives.
Provide Training and Resources: Equip change-makers with the knowledge and skills they need. Communicate Inclusively offers programs like our 12-week Diversity & Inclusion Change Maker Programme, designed to equip aspiring leaders with practical skills to drive DEAI transformations.
Recognise Contributions: Celebrate DEAI efforts, big and small. This inspires others and reinforces the value of inclusivity across the organisation.
Creating Change Together
As DEAI advocates, we all have a role to play in transforming the travel industry. If you're ready to become a DEAI Change Maker, consider joining our sister company the Inclusive Travel Forum. Together, we can work towards a future where the travel industry not only reflects the diversity of our world but also offers accessible, welcoming, and culturally sensitive experiences for all.
For more information, visit http://www.inclusivetravelforum.org to learn more about joining our community and helping drive this important movement. Let’s make inclusivity a cornerstone of our industry—one change-maker at a time.