Gabrielle Austen-Browne FRSA (she/her)’s Post

Celebrating HumanLight, Pfeffernüsse, and Roots : a day for reflection and connection. Today, 23-DEC, marks three unique celebrations that offer an opportunity to reflect on what brings us together, what nourishes us, and where we come from : ✨ HumanLight Day : a celebration of humanism and secular values, emphasizing reason, compassion, and hope. It reminds us to embrace diversity and work towards a brighter future for all. 🍬 Pfeffernüsse Day : a delightful nod to tradition through the spiced cookie enjoyed across generations and cultures. Pfeffernüsse reminds us of the power of small things - a recipe, a treat, or a shared moment - to connect us with our heritage. 🌲 Roots Day : a day to honor our personal histories, our families, and the cultural legacies that shape who we are. As a QHSE manager and DE&I advocate, I find these celebrations profoundly interconnected : HumanLight inspires me to create inclusive spaces that uplift every voice and recognize the strength in our shared humanity. Pfeffernüsse shows how tradition connects me to my roots while offering opportunities to share my unique stories with others. Roots Day challenges me to explore and honor my history as we build inclusive environments that value the depth of diverse backgrounds. A call to action : - Reflect on values : take a moment today to consider what values guide your interactions. How can you bring more compassion and inclusion into your workplace and community? - Share your story : post about a tradition or value that has shaped you. Use it as a conversation starter to connect with others and learn from their experiences. - Act with intention : commit to a small but meaningful action - whether it’s advocating for a more inclusive policy at work or simply inviting a colleague to share their perspective. Let’s use this unique trio of celebrations to remind ourselves of the beauty in diversity, the richness of our roots, and the shared humanity that binds us all. What inspires you on days like today? I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments. Let’s keep building a brighter, more inclusive future together!

More than ever, in these times of backlash against and underfunding of diversity programs, it’s key to ensure your commitment doesn’t slip. That we don’t return to a world of all-male panels at tech conferences and/or all-white (highly paid) Keynote Speakers (with BIPOC just in emcee roles). Let us help you make sure your most important events are as diverse and inclusive as your values are! Picture: cultivating a highly-engaged, multiracial audience where women/queer/trans folks are elevated and embraced. Where innovative networking formats reduce the “subtle acts of exclusion” that are far too common at professional conferences and events. Get the playbook ($29) from Dr. Breeze H. and Femily Howe, a duo of DEI advisors who have 40 years of combined experience making events work for marginalized groups, too. https://lnkd.in/gPbYBApm

I love an event where women can chat, network and learn from each other. Even better when there is delicious food, drinks and setting! I've been to the The In Good. events two or three times before and they're great! It's so great to be surrounded by amazing women. I was delighted to be invited to be one of the panellists at this month's event. Thank you Nic Sowden and Rachel Hirst for thinking of me. For me, following their questions, here are a few things that ring true to my career and life experience: - If you find something that you love that you can turn into a business idea, then go for it if you can! - I've never felt 100% confident with decisions I make, but I think that is healthy. I don't ever want to be in a place where I don't feel that I have things to learn from others - As a women, you can feel pitted against others, but Zoe and I work hard to ensure that our workplace nurtures everyone's paths. For team recruitment, the most important pre requisite for us is that you are personable and friendly. All other skills can be taught - I probably don't do enough self care, but I enjoy the simple things in life: my family, friends, the outdoors, a good pub lunch and occasional hot tub! - I've heard that it's not a good idea to set up a business with someone else, not least your family, but definitely not your in laws! But Zoe and I work perfectly as Co Founders! Utilising separate skills, sharing the workload and always being there for each other when we need to decompress. - I couldn't imagine doing anything else but @Zebedee. It's my absolute passion, and without this passion, and the passion of the team and talent, we wouldn't be where we are today, as it still remains ridiculously difficult to get clients to either understand why they should be inclusive, or take the step to be so. You can watch this clip to find out a little more about why and how we set up Zebedee. #WomenInBusiness #Sheffield #CreativeIndustry

🍰 Missed Out on RFWin 2024? We've Got You Covered! If you couldn't attend the RFWin 2024 Proposal Industry Experts conference, no worries—your slice of the pie is still waiting! We've whipped up a recap rich with insights from some of the most flavorful sessions. Check out these three that are focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. 🍒 Session Highlights: "Owning Your Queer Identity in Your Business" with Arlo West Just like the perfect recipe, your business reflects your unique ingredients. Arlo shared how embracing your queer, trans, and/or neurodiverse identity can be the secret ingredient to a more authentic and successful business. This session was a powerful reminder that being true to yourself not only strengthens your brand but also attracts clients who value authenticity. "Generations Unplugged: Conversations on Age Diversity" with Amanda Haven, Proposal Management Expert 📄 Imagine a kitchen where five different generations are cooking together—sounds challenging, right? Amanda served practical tips on getting these diverse generations working in harmony, ensuring that every team member, from the seasoned pros to the fresh-out-of-the-oven newbies, adds their unique touch to the final product. "Inclusive Communication & Retention with the RETAIN Process" with Dr. Nelva Lee Communication is the yeast that helps your team rise. Dr. Nelva Lee introduced the RETAIN Process, a method to create a culture of personal responsibility, fostering inclusive communication that keeps everyone engaged and retained. It’s the kind of process that ensures your team stays cohesive, even as you add new flavors to the mix. 🥧 Why This Matters to You: In the world of proposals, diversity isn't just a nice-to-have; it's the secret ingredient that can take your business from good to award-winning. Understanding and embracing diversity in all its forms—whether in identity, age, or communication style—will help you craft proposals that resonate on a deeper level, appeal to a broader audience, and, ultimately, win more business. So, whether you’re looking to spice up your approach or sweeten your team dynamics, catch up on these sessions. They’re the key ingredients to elevate your business to the next level. 👉 Ready for a taste? Head over to our session recordings to catch up on everything you missed and start baking a more inclusive and successful future for your business! #RFWin2024 #DiversityAndInclusion #InclusiveBusiness #ProposalIndustry #BakeSuccessIntoYourStrategy

💭 The Untold Truth About Q&A Sessions. Over the years, I’ve sat in countless Q&A sessions, sometimes as a speaker, other times as an attendee. One pattern has always stood out: men and women experience these moments differently. Here’s what I’ve noticed: 👉 Women are often asked more questions, but not all are constructive. 👉 Some questions are unnecessarily challenging, even dismissive. 👉 These subtle dynamics can chip away at confidence over time. But here’s the thing: small changes can create massive shifts. Imagine Q&A sessions where every voice feels respected and valued. Here’s how we can make that happen: 1️⃣ Start strong: Kick off with a question from a woman, it sets a tone of inclusivity and encourages others to join. 2️⃣ Pause the room: If a question crosses the line, don’t rush to respond. Silence can reclaim the space and reset the energy. 3️⃣ Prioritize respect: Encourage thoughtful dialogue that uplifts rather than undermines. Q&A sessions should be a platform for growth, not a test of resilience. What’s been your experience in these spaces? Have you seen these dynamics at play? Let’s share actionable ideas in the comments. Together, we can make every Q&A session a little more respectful and a lot more empowering. ❤️ Support if you agree. ♻️ Share this with your network. 🔔 Follow me for more insights: Estera Anghelescu, M.B.A.

How I Became a Global Sensation This Year! Don’t hate, sis. Just celebrate! (Just kidding, maybe not.) I was invited to speak with the incredible Gaelle Munayi That makes me global too, right? (LOL!) Gaelle isn’t just amazing; she’s a powerhouse! She’s a Forbes Women Alumni and inspires countless women! And she invited ME! A Ugandan belle making noise in personal branding! 🔴 Key Takeaways from Our Keynote: ↳Values Matter! Align your values with your team’s. ↳Share Your Stories! Every struggle makes your brand stronger. ↳Build an Inclusive Vision! Involve your team. Together, you’re unstoppable! ↳Small Steps Count! Break dreams into 12-week goals. ↳Scare Yourself! If your vision doesn’t scare you, dream bigger! Thanks, Gaelle Munayi, for your wisdom! If you're thinking no one is watching: Keep sharing who you are. Opportunities are coming. So keep showing up! P.S. So, when do I get my global crown? Asking for a friend! For the Queens who won the writing birthday offer with Daniella Mato and I your wins are in the comments section.

🍰 Missed Out on RFWin 2024? We've Got You Covered! If you couldn't attend the RFWin 2024 Proposal Industry Experts conference, no worries—your slice of the pie is still waiting! We've whipped up a recap rich with insights from some of the most flavorful sessions. Check out these three that are focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. 🍒 Session Highlights: "Owning Your Queer Identity in Your Business" with Arlo West Just like the perfect recipe, your business reflects your unique ingredients. Arlo West shared how embracing your queer, trans, and/or neurodiverse identity can be the secret ingredient to a more authentic and successful business. This session was a powerful reminder that being true to yourself not only strengthens your brand but also attracts clients who value authenticity. "Generations Unplugged: Conversations on Age Diversity" with Amanda Haven, Proposal Management Expert 📄 Imagine a kitchen where five different generations are cooking together—sounds challenging, right? Amanda Haven served practical tips on getting these diverse generations working in harmony, ensuring that every team member, from the seasoned pros to the fresh-out-of-the-oven newbies, adds their unique touch to the final product. "Inclusive Communication & Retention with the RETAIN Process" with Dr. Nelva Lee Communication is the yeast that helps your team rise. Dr. Nelva Lee introduced the RETAIN Process, a method to create a culture of personal responsibility, fostering inclusive communication that keeps everyone engaged and retained. It’s the kind of process that ensures your team stays cohesive, even as you add new flavors to the mix. 🥧 Why This Matters to You: In the world of proposals, diversity isn't just a nice-to-have; it's the secret ingredient that can take your business from good to award-winning. Understanding and embracing diversity in all its forms—whether in identity, age, or communication style—will help you craft proposals that resonate on a deeper level, appeal to a broader audience, and, ultimately, win more business. So, whether you’re looking to spice up your approach or sweeten your team dynamics, catch up on these sessions. They’re the key ingredients to elevate your business to the next level. 👉 Ready for a taste? Head over to our session recordings to catch up on everything you missed and start baking a more inclusive and successful future for your business! #RFWin2024 #DiversityAndInclusion #InclusiveBusiness #ProposalIndustry #BakeSuccessIntoYourStrategy

In a world full of noise, it's our unique voices that have the power to resonate, inspire, and create lasting change. Whether it's sharing innovative ideas, championing important causes, or igniting conversations that matter, our voices have the ability to shape the future. So let's raise our voices, embrace the unexpected, and fearlessly pursue our goals, knowing that with determination and passion, we can achieve anything we set our minds to! Click the link in profile to get started! #Amplifyyourvoice #Unleashpotential

🔊Our founder, Lisa Balser • Creative Director • Brand Coach • Certified Diversity Executive® • Author, has submitted a proposal to present an interactive workshop at SXSW 2025, in partnership with Dianne Sharp Daniels. We’re counting on you - our community - to cast your vote to get us there! 🤝 This successful skill builder is designed for everyone at every level at every organization who wants to learn to manage missteps and microaggressions and build a culture of belonging where everyone can thrive. ☑️ PLEASE VOTE!  Diffusing the Discomfort: tools for inclusive conversations™ Caught off-guard by a co-workers comment? Unsure how to respond? Wish you could unsay something you said? Learn how to move from a state of shock to an informed plan of action and build relationships without burning bridges. This hands-on, interactive experience is designed to help everyone become more comfortable having uncomfortable conversations across differences while working together to diffuse discomfort and support inclusive behaviors. Participants will: · Gain awareness of workplace microaggressions, their impact across cultures and identities, and the risks associated with navigating them · Workshop a proven, repeatable framework that promotes productive dialogue across differences · Practice conversation components designed to empower everyone at every level and learn to work together with understanding and empathy 👉  Cast your vote for New & Improved via the SXSW PanelPicker! https://lnkd.in/egvYbtaZ. #LetsImprove #SXSWPanelPicker #CommunityVoting #SXSW2025 Never miss a chance to learn, educate, and ally — subscribe to our free DEI Cal™ on our Resources page. https://lnkd.in/erwjEq6 Let us help you actualize your DEI CTA™ — book a complimentary discovery call today. https://lnkd.in/eAbf9Wna Want more DEIBA+ news you can use? Sign up for our newsletter. https://lnkd.in/eWnZjpYG [Image description: Image depicts a “southwestern” type scene with a blue & orange sky above various objects in the sand, including a star, the SXSW arrow logo, a horseshoe, and an armadillo. The text reads, “Vote For My PanelPicker Proposal. SXSW Community Voting August 6-18, 2024. End of image description.] #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #Accessibility #Belonging #Representation #Retention #Equality #Marketing #Advertising #HumanResources #HR #LearningAndDevelopment #ChiefDiversityOfficer

What do you get the woman that has everything? It definitely isn’t more Books Clothes Jewelry Chocolate Appliances Purses or bags. (Ok, maybe chocolate.) You gift her  Joy Clarity Friends Surprises Creativity Confidence AND Chocolate Give her a ticket to Possibilities Conference 2025. This event isn’t your typical women’s conference.  Participants spend the day crafting their personal framework for incredible success. We then provide a year of support and encouragement to help them reach their goals. If you love an ambitious woman who doesn't need more "stuff," a ticket to Possibilities Conference can change her life. Who in your life could use a day of encouragement and leveling up?