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Initiative recognised for ‘gold standard’ LGBTI inclusion program

Initiative has been awarded gold for its LGBTI inclusion program at the 2019 Australian Workplace Equality Index awards, which assess workplaces on their progress and impact in the space.

The agency won gold in the small employer (less than 200 people) category and was also named small employer of the year. Other winners included ANZ, Woolworths, Lend Lease, Macquarie Bank, the Australian Taxation Office, and PwC.

Scott Laird (left) and Olivia Warren (right)

“The whole agency has supported our progress in being a more inclusive and welcoming workplace, especially for the LGBTI community,” said Initiative’s national CEO Melissa Fein.

Initiative’s Rainbow Elephant program for LGBTI inclusion includes a HR policy and diversity practice, training, networking initiatives, and community engagement and advocacy. The program was spearheaded by head of studio, Olivia Warren, and national director of people and culture, Scott Laird.

“This award fills me with a lot of pride. I feel very fortunate to work in an environment that not only accepts me for who I am but fosters an environment that is supportive and inclusive for all,” Warren said of the wins.

Fein added that Warren and Laird’s leadership has had an impact on the agency.

“Olivia and Scott have also been inspirational leaders for a group of agency volunteers and these awards prove how popular and effective our Rainbow Elephant program has been,” she said.

The awards were hosted by ACON’s Pride in Diversity, the national not for profit employer support program for LGBTI workplace inclusion.

Nationally, 17 employers were awarded gold in LGBTI inclusion. Three of those were in the small employer category.

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