DEI FOSTERS A CULTURAL VALUE OF CREATIVITY & INNOVATION IN CORPORATE
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is crucial to corporate culture because it fosters a work environment that respects and values the different perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds of its employees. When companies embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion, they:
Create a more innovative and productive workforce: Employees from diverse backgrounds bring fresh ideas and perspectives, driving creativity and innovation in problem-solving and decision-making.
Improve employee engagement: Employees feel valued and respected when their ideas and contributions are acknowledged, leading to higher engagement and retention rates.
Unlocking the true potential of DEI is a dynamic and collaborative endeavor, a journey of exploration and discovery that must span the breadth of industry. By opening the floodgates of conversation, embracing diverse perspectives and lived experiences, and forging alliances with stakeholders from all walks of life, we can chart a course towards closing the stubborn gaps in inclusion, creating a world where equity and respect are the hallmarks of every workplace and community.
The task of championing DEI cannot be left to a single individual or organization, nor should it be considered a fleeting trend. Rather, it demands a multi-pronged, systemic approach that transcends the boundaries of industry and engages the collective imagination and creativity of every facet of society.
In a glittering event at the Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, that showcased the power of diversity and inclusion in action, the Bombay Chamber DEI Awards 2024 highlighted the corporate leaders who are driving positive change and creating ripple effects across the business world.
From cutting-edge policies to inspiring workplace cultures, these trailblazers are proving that DEI isn’t just a buzzword but a tangible and transformative force that can elevate not only individual organizations but entire industries.
Backed by the prowess and expertise of Deloitte, the Bombay Chamber DEI Awards 2024 blazed a trail, casting a wide net and embracing a diverse array of submissions across six categories.
From gender parity and LGBTQIA+ inclusion to disability confidence and programs that support underrepresented groups, the Chamber’s dedication to inclusivity knew no bounds, celebrating companies that dared to dream of a more just and equitable world.
The sheer volume of submissions, a staggering 129, attested to the growing importance of DEI in corporate culture and the desire of businesses, large and small, to be recognized for their efforts.
Like a beacon in the night, the Bombay Chamber DEI Awards shone a light on corporate excellence, honoring the trailblazers that dared to challenge the status quo and embrace the unique qualities of every individual in their workforce.
From industry giants to burgeoning MSMEs, these companies proved that size was no barrier to DEI success, creating an inclusive environment that fostered creativity, collaboration, and growth.
The Awards served not only as a recognition of their accomplishments but also as a rallying cry, spurring others to join the movement and work towards a brighter, more equitable future.
Sandeep Khosla, the Director General of the Bombay Chamber, welcomed the crowd with the warmth and gravitas of a true pioneer, highlighting the Chamber’s rich legacy and its commitment to shaping a better tomorrow.
Ritesh Tiwari, the Chamber’s President, then took the stage, his presence as CFO of Hindustan Unilever Limited and Unilever South Asia lending weight to his words. With measured cadence, he expounded upon the vital role of DEI in today’s business landscape, not just as a moral imperative, but as a strategic necessity.
Nisaba Godrej, a visionary leader of the iconic Godrej Group, took the fireside chat stage, her presence a testament to the power of representation and diversity. Her insights, fortified by the scorecard that reflected Godrej’s dedication to DEI, illuminated the path forward for companies eager to follow in her footsteps. Meenakshi Priyam, a champion of DEI and Group CHRO at udaan, joined her in this engaging conversation, sharing stories that highlighted the importance of empathy and passion in leadership.
Nisaba highlighted, “Leadership is a privilege where you should not just deliver numbers and service customers, but you need to serve your organisation as well. Fulfillment and meaning come from serving others.”
At the panel discussion, each speaker brought a distinct voice and perspective to the DEI conversation, each illuminating a different facet of the multifaceted issue.
Nitin Razdan, a master facilitator, steered the conversation with finesse, allowing the voices of his guests to shine. Neera Saggi, a trailblazer and the first woman President of the Bombay Chamber, reflected on the progress made in boardrooms but underscored the need for continuous assessment and safe spaces for all employees.
Parimala Bhat, the fearless leader of Snehankit Helpline, took the podium with a passion for justice and compassion for those on society’s fringes. Her words painted a stark picture of the challenges faced by marginalized communities in accessing basic human rights, igniting a fire in the hearts of those present to take action.
Parmesh Shahani, a champion of inclusivity and head of the Godrej DEI Lab, added his perspective on the need for structural changes and consistent efforts, highlighting the importance of converting DEI intentions into tangible actions.
An important fireside chat, a rare glimpse into the mind of the jury, featured Puneet Chhatwal, a hospitality magnate and CEO of The Indian Hotels Company Ltd. His words, seasoned with the insight gained from leading one of India’s premier hospitality brands, shed light on the decision-making process that shaped the DEI Awards.
Chhatwal also delved into the unique challenges faced by 24/7 businesses like hotels in fostering a diverse workforce, a testament to the ever-shifting landscape of DEI and the need for industry-specific approaches.
Puneet Chhatwal, with his vast experience and deep knowledge, revealed the inner workings of the jury, highlighting the multifaceted criteria and deliberation process that went into choosing the recipients of the Bombay Chamber DEI Awards.
He then pivoted to address the unique challenges that organizations with around-the-clock operations like hotels face in building a diverse workforce. Chhatwal’s insights showcased the nuances of DEI that must be considered in different business settings, a critical step in the journey towards greater inclusion and equity.
The winners of the Bombay Chamber DEI 2024 Awards were:
DEI Champion Award – Winner: InterGlobe Aviation Limited (IndiGo)
LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Award – Winner: Godrej Properties Limited
Gender Equality Champion Award
Winner: Capgemini Technology Services India Limited
Disability Confidence and Inclusion Award Winner: LTIMindtree Limited
The complete list of winners –
* Special Award for MSMEs
Winner: Shashi Natural and Organics Pvt Ltd
1st Runner-up: NICHEM Solutions.
2nd Runner-up: Juris Corp
* DEI Champion Award
Winner: InterGlobe Aviation Limited (IndiGo)
1st Runner-up: Godrej Properties Limited
2nd Runner-up: Shell India Markets Private Limited
2nd Runner-up: Capgemini Technology Services India Limited
* Gender Equality Champion Award
Winner: Capgemini Technology Services India Limited
1st Runner-up: Federal Bank
2nd Runner-up: Khaitan & Co.
* LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Award
Winner: Godrej Properties Limited
1st Runner-up: Deutsche Bank Group
1st Runner-up: Shell India Markets Private Limited
2nd Runner-up: Khaitan & Co.
* Disability Confidence and Inclusion Award
Winner: LTIMindtree Limited
1st Runner-up: Shell India Markets Private Limited
2nd Runner-up: Capgemini Technology Services India Limited
* Best DEI Program Award
Winner: Standard Chartered Bank, India
1st Runner-up: Tata Communications Ltd
2nd Runner-up: TVS Motor Company