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.

By Michael Adu, London Stress Centre

In the realm of stress management coaching, every client encounter unfolds like a unique journey through the intricacies of human experience. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside individuals from diverse backgrounds, each grappling with their own stressors and striving to find equilibrium amidst life’s chaos. Through these interactions, I’ve gleaned invaluable insights—some surprising, some profound—that have reshaped my understanding of stress and its management.

Here are some of the most unexpected lessons I’ve learned along the way:

1. Stress is not inherently negative:

Contrary to popular belief, stress is not always the villain in the narrative of well-being. In fact, a healthy amount of stress can serve as a catalyst for growth, adaptation and resilience. Through working with clients, I’ve come to appreciate the nuanced interplay between positive stress and negative stress. Embracing this distinction allows us to re-frame stress as a potential source of motivation and resilience, rather than a relentless adversary.

2. Vulnerability is a gateway to resilience:

In our society, vulnerability is often equated with weakness. However, my clients have taught me that vulnerability is, in fact, the cornerstone of authentic connection and inner strength. By courageously confronting their vulnerabilities, individuals cultivate resilience and foster deeper connections with themselves and others. As a coach, I have the privilege of creating safe spaces where vulnerability is not only accepted but celebrated as a catalyst for transformation.

3. Self-compassion is non-negotiable:

In our fast-paced world, self-compassion is often overlooked amidst the relentless pursuit of productivity and perfection. Yet, my work with clients has underscored the profound impact of self-compassion on stress management. Cultivating a kind and nurturing relationship with oneself lays the foundation for resilience in the face of adversity. As advocates for well-being, it’s imperative that we emphasise the importance of self-compassion as a fundamental practice in stress management.

4. Community is a lifeline:

Amidst the tumult of modern life, the importance of community cannot be overstated. My clients have taught me that seeking support and connection from select loved ones is not a sign of weakness, but a testament to our shared humanity. Building a supportive community fosters resilience, provides a sense of belonging, and sometimes a source of solace in times of stress. As advocates for holistic well-being, we must champion the importance of nurturing supportive communities that uplift and empower individuals on their journey toward stress management.

In conclusion, my work as a stress management coach has been a journey of profound discovery and growth, guided by the wisdom and resilience of my clients. Through their stories, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of stress and the myriad pathways to its management. As we continue our collective pursuit of diversity, equality, and inclusion, let us remember that stress management is not merely about alleviating symptoms, but about cultivating a culture of compassion, resilience, and empowerment.

Get your tickets to UnderOne Festival 2024 Here!

Listen to Michael Adu’s podcast.

We are thrilled to introduce María del Mar Galcerán Gadea, a trailblazer in disability rights and inclusion, who will speak at the upcoming UnderOne Festival. María’s extraordinary story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, as she made history as the first politician with Down syndrome to secure a seat in the Corts Valencianes.

María’s advocacy for disability rights and inclusion goes beyond geographical boundaries, offering encouragement and strength to individuals and families facing similar challenges worldwide. In her own words, “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 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.”

Down Syndrome, a genetic condition causing intellectual disabilities and developmental delays, presents unique challenges as individuals transition into adulthood. One significant hurdle is the lack of job opportunities and inclusivity in the workplace. Despite advancements in awareness and advocacy, people with Down syndrome still face stigma and discrimination, often limiting their access to meaningful employment and social inclusion.

María’s journey challenges these stereotypes and highlights the importance of creating inclusive environments where individuals of all abilities can thrive. Her presence at the UnderOne Festival offers a platform to boost the voices of marginalised communities and drive meaningful change in society’s perceptions of disability.

Join us in welcoming María del Mar Galcerán Gadea as she shares her insights, experiences, and unwavering commitment to advancing disability rights and inclusion at the UnderOne Festival.

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!  Let’s embrace diversity, celebrate inclusion, and work towards a more equitable world for all.

UnderOne Festival, a groundbreaking two-day event dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), is thrilled to announce Warner Bros. Discovery as its headline sponsor. Scheduled for July 24th – 25th, 2024, at the University of Northampton, this transformative festival is set to redefine the discourse on DEI with a global perspective.

Warner Bros. Discovery, a leading global media and entertainment powerhouse, brings its unwavering commitment to DEI to the forefront as the headline sponsor for UnderOne Festival. With their support, the event aims to foster meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and action towards building more inclusive communities and workplaces.

Dr Asif Sadiq MBE, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at Warner Bros. Discovery, expressed his enthusiasm for the sponsorship, stating, “We are thrilled to support the inaugural year of UnderOne Festival. Companies that prioritise DE&I not only foster stronger relationships with employees, consumers, and partners but also drive greater business success. I look forward to contributing to this event and sharing knowledge and experience with our counterparts around the world.”

The festival has already garnered interest from influential leaders across the globe, including participants from the UK, USA, UAE, Finland, and Spain. Themes to be explored during the event include leveraging diversity to enhance employee value propositions, navigating the impact of artificial intelligence on inclusivity in the digital age, and integrating DEI principles with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices for responsible leadership.

The festival will bring together a diverse array of DEI practitioners, industry leaders, HR professionals, entrepreneurs, non-profit organisations, educators, public sector representatives, creatives, and individuals passionate about advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Book your ticket to UnderOne Festival 2024, please visit www.underonefestival.com.

UnderOne Festival, a transformative global two-day event dedicated to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, has announced that its highly anticipated 2024 festival will take place at the University of Northampton. Scheduled for July 24th – 25th at the University’s £330 million Waterside Campus, the hybrid-event is set to mark a pivotal moment in the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) space.

The festival will feature a stellar lineup of world-class speakers, immersive experiences, and thought-provoking discussions, redefining the landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

According to recent research by Deloitte, 74% of millennial employees feel that their organisation is more innovative when it fosters a culture of inclusion and highlighted the importance of creating a safe and inclusive space to elevate the discussions around DEI. By bringing together diverse individuals, organisations, and communities, UnderOne Festival aims to deliver a transformative experience that catalyses meaningful change.

The festival’s advisory board comprises global leaders including, but not limited to, Asif Sadiq, Warner Bros. Discovery, Henrique Zanin, eBay, Professor Anne-Marie Kilday, Vice Chancellor of the University of Northampton, and spoken word artist Amerah Saleh.

Highlighting the festival’s potential for impact, Professor Anne-Marie Kilday, Vice Chancellor of the University of Northampton, said, “We are delighted to host such a groundbreaking festival on our campus. It is both a privilege and an opportunity to convene a global gathering of diverse minds to drive real change in the workplace.”

The festival will feature inspirational keynotes, panel discussions, skill-building workshops, wellness activities, and a business expo, showcasing over 60% of businesses with majority diversity ownership. DEI Innovators will have the opportunity to enter an Innovation Challenge, with a cash prize available for the most promising idea. As it is a hybrid event, a virtual pass is available for those unable to attend in person. The gala awards evening will recognise global organisations and individuals for their outstanding contributions to advancing equity and celebrating diversity.

Asif Sadiq, Chief Diversity Officer at Warner Bros. Discovery, and Headline Sponsor of UnderOne, expressed his excitement about the festival’s unique approach: “We are looking forward to UnderOne Festival showcasing the latest trends, innovations, and solutions in the DEI space.”

Delegates from various disciplines, including Global DEI Practitioners, industry leaders, HR professionals, entrepreneurs, non-profit organisations, educators, public sector representatives, artists, and creative professionals, are invited to participate in this inclusive event.

To enquire about sponsor, speaker, and exhibitor opportunities, contact hello@underonefestival.com

Diversity and inclusion form the foundations of our human wellness experiences.  Nurturing a culture of diversity and inclusion is fundamental to personal and shared well-being.

Wellness, at its core, is an all-encompassing idea that not only involves physical fitness but also mental health and social well-being. It covers more than simply being free from sicknesses; it involves blooming and flourishing in every area of life. The path to wellness is extensively guided by the embrace of diversity and inclusion.

 Celebrating Diversity

First things first, diverse inclusive spaces recognise the uniqueness of all. To develop a strong cultural foundation which appreciates diversity as an asset, this means recognising and celebrating differences among people. This goes beyond mere variety; it’s a great facilitator for our mental health welfare. When individuals feel visible, listened to, or appreciated just as they are, this creates a platform for a tenable healthy mindset.

Intellectual Wellness

Intellectual wellness would be encouraged through diversity since it brings forth different perspectives which result in multiple experiences.  Inclusive spaces are the place for many voices that form a multifaceted view of the world. Individuals’ exposure to diverse thoughts and viewpoints also fosters collective intelligence, which is behind many of the world’s most exciting innovations and advancements.

Social well-being

Another important aspect of wellness is social well-being, and it thrives within environments that embrace diversity and inclusion. Social bonds become stronger when individuals feel a sense of belonging and connection, leading to a supportive and inspirational community. This eliminates societal barriers in inclusive spaces, enabling people to create real connections regardless of their differences. These connections provide emotional support that encourages resilience against life’s adversities.

Physical Wellness

Diversity and inclusion are also deeply connected with physical wellness. The environment should promote diversity and inclusivity to ensure equal access to resources and opportunities so that individuals can lead healthy lives irrespective of their background or identity. This means including everyone in well-being programmes and providing disability-friendly infrastructure; in such an environment, physical well-being has been elevated through diversity.

Wellness Workshops at UnderOne Festival 2024

In the spirit of fostering a vibrant celebration of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, UnderOne Festival is proud to bring together a distinguished array of experts from the realms of arts, wellness, and mindfulness. Through this curated convergence, we aim to create an immersive and interactive experience that offers a unique twist on the traditional conference concept.

We’re delighted to bring Laughter Yoga to the festival.  This is extremely beneficial for team bonding, stress management, and communication skills. The London Stress Centre will also host two workshops to help foster resilience, nourish the mind, and create a positive impact both personally and professionally. Additionally, we have an energy training workshop to help you reconnect and discover your full potential. We have many other activities planned, including traditional yoga workshops to transform your mind and body and promote holistic wellness.

Join us at the University of Northampton in July as we strive to create environments that champion diversity, embrace inclusion, and prioritise wellness!

Find out more about our wellness workshops here.

Transforming Vision into Impact: A Call to Entrepreneurs Pioneering Diversity and Inclusion

UnderOne Festival is extending a warm invitation to global start-ups and visionary entrepreneurs who are at the forefront of driving diversity and inclusion through innovative products and services. The Inclusive Innovation Challenge not only offers the prospect of winning a substantial cash prize but also serves as a gateway to accessing corporate partners, securing new customers, gaining sponsorship, and receiving invaluable mentoring. Beyond the accolades, participants can anticipate a wealth of opportunities for networking and unparalleled marketing exposure.

Why Seize this Opportunity? Amplify Your Impact

The Inclusive Innovation Challenge at UnderOne Festival is more than a competition; it’s a transformative opportunity for entrepreneurs to amplify their impact on a global scale. For those with groundbreaking solutions that contribute to a more inclusive future, this challenge provides a platform to showcase their innovations to a diverse audience.

Unlock Multifaceted Rewards

The allure of the Inclusive Innovation Challenge goes beyond the allure of a significant cash prize. Participants stand to gain access to corporate partners, tap into new customer bases, secure sponsorship deals, and receive mentorship that can elevate their ventures to new heights.

What Attendees Can Anticipate Striking Showcases of Innovation

Attendees at UnderOne Festival will be treated to a spectacle of cutting-edge innovations that redefine diversity and inclusion. From revolutionary technologies to visionary services, the Inclusive Innovation Challenge promises to be a showcase of ideas that have the potential to reshape industries.

Insightful Discussions and Networking

Engage in insightful discussions led by industry experts, innovators, and thought leaders. Dive deep into conversations about the transformative power of innovation in fostering diversity and inclusion. Moreover, the festival provides a unique networking environment where collaborations and partnerships can thrive, leading to new opportunities.

Access to Corporate Partners, Customers, Sponsorship, and Mentorship

Participating start-ups and entrepreneurs have the unique chance to gain access to corporate partners seeking innovative solutions, attract new customers interested in cutting-edge products, secure sponsorships to fuel their growth, and receive mentorship from experienced professionals who can guide them on their entrepreneurial journey.

How to Join the Transformational Journey

Global start-ups and entrepreneurs keen on being part of this transformative journey can submit their entries for the Inclusive Innovation Challenge through the official UnderOne Festival website. This is an opportunity not just to compete but to connect with corporate partners, gain new customers, secure sponsorships, receive mentorship, and achieve unparalleled marketing exposure.

Shaping the Future Together

UnderOne Festival’s Inclusive Innovation Challenge is not just a competition; it’s an empowering initiative for those leading the charge in innovation with a purpose. Beyond the competitive aspect, participants can anticipate access to a myriad of opportunities – from corporate partnerships to new customers, sponsorships, mentorship, and extensive marketing exposure. Join us at UnderOne Festival as we collectively shape a future where innovation drives diversity and inclusion forward.

Regsiter Your Interest

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Briefly describe your innovative product or service focused on diversity and inclusion

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Corporate PartnershipsNew Customer AcquisitionSponsorship OpportunitiesMentorship ProgramsMarketing Exposure
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