Equal Futures | EDI Conversations & Networking

Equal Futures | EDI Conversations & Networking is all about fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace! Join us for a morning filled with inspiring discussions, networking opportunities, and activities focused on this month's theme - Equality of Opportunity: Progression, Learning and Development for Inclusive Workplaces.

Learn from experts, share your experiences, and connect with like-minded individuals passionate about equality in the workplace. Come be a part of this impactful event that provides an overview of how to integrate fair and inclusive leadership practices into everyday business.

Key Information

This event will take place at CDL, Kings Reach Drive, Stockport SK4 2HD

Doors open at 10.00am for refreshments and networking.

We will then hear from our guest speakers for this event which include:

Employer Spotlight from CDL - CDL is one of the UK's leading software development houses, employing over 600 people at its campus in Stockport. Hear from HR Manager, Emma Lord, and her team talk about their latest EDI transformation initiatives as they foster a more diverse and inclusive workplace culture.

Main Speaker - Dr Christopher Owen, Coliberate

Presentation Topic - What is workplace diversity for? Why is it important for marginalised staff in particular to develop and progress into leadership positions? How might this impact, not just our organisations, but our communities as a whole? In this talk, we'll explore the ways that historic social structures are organised, managed, justified and experienced in order to limit different groups’ access to opportunities. Progression, Learning and Development and Equality of Opportunity are framed as part of a crucial process for improving fairness and equality on a larger, systemic scale. By the end of the session, attendees will come to know how they can not only improve their workplace's inclusive practices, but how they can play a more meaningful role in creating a fairer and freer society for all.

Bio - "If we want to make a difference, then we need to do things differently - I’m here to show you how." As the founder of Coliberate, Christopher Owen (he/they) offers inclusivity and liberation coaching, consulting, speaking and training to individuals, groups and organisations seeking to improve their impact for positive social change. A 2024 Northern Gamechanger, Christopher has a PhD in intersectional systemic oppression and Black feminisms, with over a decade of experience in LGBTQ+ inclusivity and consulting. They have presented to thousands internationally and published on intersectionality, identity, social change, queer resistance, and inclusive practice, with his second book now forthcoming from Routledge Education.

VCFSE Spotlight, Victoria Greenhough - The Bereaved Parent Mentor CIC supports bereaved parents on their return to work after the loss of their child. Losing your own child is a life shattering event and we are there to mentor them and advocate for them as they return to work, as well as providing consultation for the people they work with so that the return to a psychologically safe space.

Teas, coffees and light refreshments will be provided. Please advise of any dietary requirements upon booking.