Introduction to diversity and inclusion
This engaging, foundational session introduces participants to the core concepts and terminology of Equity Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), highlights the significance of diversity, and encourages personal reflection on inclusive behaviours.
Designed for employees with little or no prior EDI training, this session builds awareness, fosters understanding, and lays a solid foundation for ongoing learning and development.
Defining EDI
This section provides a contextual overview of EDI exploring key concepts and lays the groundwork for a shared understanding among participants.
It includes an introduction to the legal and policy frameworks that shape EDI in the UK, including the Equality Act helping participants understand organisational responsibilities and compliance.
A discussion on the impact of EDI on research, collaboration, innovation and the world in general also takes place using case studies and research.
Additionally, the participants will have the opportunity to work together to identify challenges and barriers related to EDI in the workplace.
Bias and privilege
Bias and privilege shape our personal experiences and views in profound ways, often determining the opportunities and challenges we face.
Acknowledging and understanding these forces is essential for creating equitable and safe working environments.
In this section the participants will take some time to reflect on and unpack their own biases and understand how bias and privilege interact through individual and group activities and discussions.
Becoming inclusive
The session concludes by providing the participants with practical strategies and tools for communicating inclusively, identifying and addressing microaggressions, and fostering allyship at the workplace, and finally helping them develop their action plan for becoming inclusive.
This session is developed and delivered by our team of experts including:
Dr Athina Frantzana – WISE Training & Delivery Manager
Athina has over a decade of experience in Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) in STEM fields. With a background in STEM, Athina’s PhD thesis was a pioneering study that laid the groundwork for understanding the representation and experiences of women within the advanced computing community.
Throughout her career, Athina has served as a trusted EDI consultant, designing and delivering impactful training programmes across a wide range of organisations in industry, academia, and the public sector. Her expertise spans data analysis, research, EDI policy and strategy development, and HR/leadership coaching, positioning her as WISE’s go-to expert on all services and products, ensuring their evidence-based consistent excellence and relevance