PwC event champions workplace diversity and inclusion

A conference organised by PwC Cyprus promoting workplace diversity, equity and inclusion, took place on Thursday, November 18, 2021. Titled “Accelerating the Pace of Change: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion”, the event was held as part of PwC’s goal toward contributing to building a fair and inclusive society.

The conference aimed to support local businesses move towards a more inclusive and supportive organisational culture, where all staff felt free to express themselves and reach their full potential.

The programme included a panel discussion featuring the Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Natasa Pilides, Harneys Cyprus Founding Partner, Emily Yiolitis, Multiculturalism, Acceptance and Respect for Diversity Presidential Adviser, Costas Gavrielides, and Fx Pro HR Manager, Martinos Demosthenous.

Other speakers included Chief Diversity, Inclusion and Wellbeing Officer of PwC Australia, Julie McKay, who analysed the “Business need for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion”, while former PwC France Partner, Tarique Shakir-Khalil, shared his personal experience on raising an LGBTI+ child.

“Over these past eight years, PwC Cyprus is implementing an ambitious programme on inclusion and diversity, and I am really proud of everything we have achieved so far,” noted Cleo Papadopoulou, Partner, Head of Inclusion and Diversity at PwC Cyprus. “In order for everyone to have equitable access to opportunities, a mechanism must be employed that will provide fair support for all”.

Having achieved gender balance in the workplace, PwC Cyprus employs people of 26 nationalities. The organisation is an active member of “Shine”, a project that promotes support and inclusion of LGBT+ people. Over the past two years, PwC has also participated in PwC’s European Pride Week.

At the same time, the organisation supports clients in shaping their own workplace inclusion and diversity programmes, so as to create psychologically safe environments that offer a sense of belonging to all.

PwC Cyprus’ Inclusion and Diversity consulting team already implements similar projects in Cyprus and Europe, to encourage progressive change at other companies and contribute toward building a better society.

Such initiatives are a great asset for organisations, as they foster improved work environments while helping to attract qualified and talented professionals. They also help maximise profit by creating a more engaged and fulfilled workforce.