Twenty years ago, conversations about diversity in the workplace were often restricted to policy documents and HR initiatives. Today, they’re part of everyday life on the shop floor, in the boardroom, and everywhere in between. People want to feel that they belong and that who they are and what they bring to the table truly matters. Whether you’re leading a team, managing a site, or working on the tools, everyone wants to be respected, listened to, and valued for their contribution.

In this panel, we’ll explore how diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have evolved from being “something organisations should do” to something that everyone feels.
We’ll look at what’s changed — and what still needs to change — to create workplaces where people at every level feel seen, supported, and empowered to do their best work.

Our panellists will share real experiences and insights on:

• What inclusion looks and feels like right across the community — not just in leadership statements
• How to build trust and belonging between management, supervisors, and teams on the ground
• Practical ways to recruit, develop, and keep people from all backgrounds
• How fairness, respect, and open communication help everyone bring their best selves to work

We’ll also explore how DEI is no longer a top-down initiative. The best ideas and the most meaningful change often come from conversations on the shop floor — from the people who live it every day.

Together, we’ll talk about how organisations can listen better, measure what really matters, and create environments where everyone — regardless of title, background, or role — feels part of something bigger.