Learn How to Boost Your Company with Jeni Shih, Our Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador:
Hello, everyone! Today, it's my turn to chat with you—I'm Jeni Shih, Head of Innovation and Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador. Let’s dive into how this topic has been breaking many barriers. Despite significant progress in recent years, we know there’s still a long way to go when it comes to Diversity and Inclusion. Stepping out of our comfort zone can be challenging and uncomfortable, especially when facing changes that differ from our lived experiences. However, it’s essential to transform limiting realities and bring in people with diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and appearances. This enriches conversations, fuels creativity, and drives innovation forward.
We Need to Talk About Diversity and Inclusion
Did you know that, according to a 2019 Kantar study, Brazil ranked seventh in workplace diversity and inclusion? Fascinating, right? Our country is one of the most diverse in the world, shaped by a mix of colors, ethnicities, languages, and more. Therefore, one of the key ways to foster inclusive corporate cultures is to break down barriers by bringing together and connecting people with different perspectives and experiences.
Twenty-five years ago, I took on my first role as a team leader, at a time when there were very few women in leadership positions. When I began advocating for diversity, my first step was to support the inclusion of women in business decision-making spaces. In 2006, I became the leader of the LGBTQIAP+ community initiative during a time when both society and companies maintained very closed and prejudiced cultures.
Talking about LGBTQIAP+ diversity back then took immense courage, as I knew I would face criticism—whether due to ignorance or resistance to discussing such a sensitive topic. I always made it a point to bring these struggles to the attention of leadership, as it was crucial for them to understand the daily challenges faced by professionals who felt the need to "hide" to avoid judgment and jokes. From that point on, we were able to transform the company’s culture, creating a more inclusive and safer environment for everyone.
Impact for Everyone
I believe the impact of diversity spans many dimensions—from feeling safe in an environment where I don’t have to wear a mask to the freedom we have at Voe Sem Asas to truly be ourselves. Thirty years ago, this was unimaginable. When I started my career, work attire was strictly formal for both women and men. Today, we have more freedom, and this positively affects the lives of professionals.
From a business perspective, companies that are open to diversity and have clear policies of support and inclusion stand out in the market. At Voe, my arrival, alongside Alcely, brought a fresh perspective to our operations. Discussions became broader thanks to diverse viewpoints, enriching every debate. However, it’s important for leadership to have clarity on the value of plural perspectives and the strategic benefits they bring.
Time to Take a Stand
Taking a stand is essential—always. This means fostering dialogue, being open to listening, and evolving. We’re constantly learning and making mistakes, and that only happens when we take the time to truly listen to others. Leadership involvement is critical for diversity to be embedded in the company’s strategy and culture. Without the support of senior leadership, initiatives and programs tend to fade over time.
Throughout my career, I’ve experienced everything—even working under homophobic leaders. Therefore, inclusion isn’t just about hiring—it’s about shaping an everyday experience that’s inclusive and safe, with effective policies and communication channels in place.
I believe we’ve made great strides, but there’s still a long road ahead. Taking a stand for diversity creates a richer, more dynamic workplace. If you’d like to chat more, feel free to reach out—we’re always open to a conversation
It was great talking to you! See you next time.
Jeni Shih.
