Fairness, Curiosity & Kindness: The Real Foundations

Working in ED&I today, it's impossible to ignore the growing negative narrative. And honestly? It's made me mad.

I’ve spent over 30 years in the recruitment industry, driven by a passion to create change. I was the recruiter who sent candidates that didn’t check every box but had the potential to add value over time. I championed individuals whose value extended beyond their degree classification. I wanted things to be different, and I did my part. Sometimes I succeeded, sometimes I didn’t. But I always tried.

I’ve wanted to write this piece for some time, but I had to let my thoughts settle first. Anger is valid. Opinion is important. But sometimes, reflection is what leads to real change.

And here’s what I’ve realised: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion are more than corporate initiatives. At their core, they are behaviours. And when we name these behaviours, ED&I takes on a whole new meaning:

Equity = Fairness
Diversity = Curiosity
Inclusion = Kindness

🤔 Imagine a world where fairness wasn’t just a policy but a daily practice—where we all worked to level the playing field.

🤔 Imagine if curiosity about others led not just to conversations, but to connection and collaboration.

🤔 Imagine ending each day knowing you chose kindness—and that it made a difference.

Yes, ED&I budgets might be shrinking. But fairness, curiosity, and kindness? Those don’t cost a thing. And they start with us.