Reflecting on Progress, Shaping the Future

Uncategorized

Dec 19

The close of 2024 marks a year of significant change and challenge for many in the DEI space.

Despite hurdles like fatigue, backlash, and evolving definitions, DEI remains central to meaningful workplace transformation.

These challenges are driving a shift from performative efforts to embedding DEI into employee experience and leadership development.

At Ibis, we’ve remained steadfast in driving impact, cutting through the noise to deliver measurable change.

This year, we facilitated over 500 workshops across the globe, reaching more than 25,000 participants.

Covering critical topics like Inclusive Leadership, Equitable Performance Management, and Working Across Generations, our programs sparked thoughtful discussions and received a 92% approval rating.

Our workshops, designed to encourage reflection without shame of blame, guided participants through foundational concepts like the Ladder of Inference, Cultural Differences, and Skills for Inclusion and Belonging.

I am truly proud to lead a firm that approaches DEI with a growth and abundance mindset.

At Ibis, diversity, equity, and inclusion are business imperatives—opportunities to create better outcomes for organizations and their people. We craft thoughtful, legally sound strategies tailored to each client’s unique challenges and goals.

As we close the year, I invite you to reflect on two key concepts: the Curb Effect and the Miner’s Canary.

The Curb Effect demonstrates how removing barriers benefits everyone—not just specific groups.

A ramp designed for wheelchair access also helps delivery workers and parents with strollers, symbolizing how inclusive practices drive collaboration and belonging for all.

Similarly, the Miner’s Canary reminds us that marginalized groups often signal broader systemic challenges.

Just as a canary in a coal mine warns of toxic conditions, the experiences of underrepresented groups shine a light on areas requiring change.

Addressing these experiences helps organizations support those most affected and build fairer, more inclusive environments for all.

While the terminology around DEI may shift, our focus must remain clear: fostering equal and fair opportunities for all.

A vital part of this vision is equipping managers and leaders with the interpersonal skills required to navigate the complexities of today’s global workplace.

Looking forward, the future of DEI hinges on cultivating cultures of belonging and inclusion. At Ibis, we are dedicated to helping leaders and teams create environments where everyone, regardless of background, can thrive.

By prioritizing interpersonal growth and actively addressing the needs of diverse groups, we can help transform workplaces into spaces where inclusion isn’t just a goal—it’s a lived reality.

To that end, stay tuned for exciting announcements and updates coming in January 2025!

In partnership with Illumina Interactive, Ibis was honored with a 2024 Platinum eHealthcare Leadership Award in the Best Interactive category.

This recognition celebrates our six-module eLearning series, created for the Senior Medicare Patrol National Resource Center.

Funded by the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL) and Administration on Aging (AoA), the series trains counselors across 54 programs to assist Medicare beneficiaries in preventing, detecting, and reporting healthcare fraud, errors, and abuse.

Shilpa Pherwani

Shilpa Pherwani, as CEO, collaborates with leaders to develop innovative, engaging solutions to dismantle systemic inequities and leverage diversity for success. An organizational psychologist by training, she builds trusting, long-term relationships through deep listening and meeting people where they are.