A t last year ’ s virtual Future Talent Conference , we were still reeling from the death of George Floyd and the subsequent Black Lives Matter protests , dedicating a session to discussing the impact of a defining moment , through the eyes of a diverse panel .
However , participants argued that we were not yet at a point of definitive change ; what we were experiencing was simply a chance to listen — to learn from one another what needs to be done , and what can be gained from putting inclusion at the top of the agenda .
Since then , we have continued to seek out diverse voices on all issues related to the future of work , turning to expert opinions and lived experiences . In this edition of Future Talent magazine , we investigate ‘ cultures of belonging ’, sharing advice from professionals in the diversity and inclusion ( D & I ) field , and case studies from organisations striving to level the playing field for all . These emphasise the responsibility each of us must take for championing inclusion at work , and recognising the inherent value and worth of every individual .
In June , we will have the pleasure of continuing the conversation at this year ’ s Future Talent Conference , themed around ‘ transforming skills and inclusion ’, and featuring a stellar line up of global speakers over two days .
Keynotes include insights from historian David Olusoga OBE — who will put race and racism in the context of history , stressing that it is organisations , rather than governments , that are at the centre of change — and from Sinead Bovell , founder of Weekly Advice for Young Entrepreneurs , discussing D & I in a future of work powered by artificial intelligence . Business strategist , innovator and author Nilofer Merchant introduces the power of ‘ onlyness ’: that an idea , born of the spot in which only you stand , can scale by connectedness .
We hope to support the cultural shift towards more human values
Addressing cognitive diversity , journalist and author Matthew Syed will draw on cutting-edge research from psychology , economics and anthropology , to demonstrate its benefits and applications , while author and entrepreneur Margaret Heffernan challenges us to develop all aspects of human capacity , including “ the ability to convene a diverse group of people , curious about each other , and capable of the constructive conflict from which great new thinking emerges ”.
We look forward to welcoming you to this virtual event on 24 and 25 June , and to sparking innovation around the future of work and the creation of fair and equitable organisations . By providing platforms and outlets for discussion , we hope to support the cultural shift towards more human values such as respect , kindness , equality and inclusion .
In the meantime , we hope you enjoy this edition of the magazine .
Jim Carrick-Birtwell Co-founder and CEO | jim @ futuretalentlearning . com