02Diversity + Inclusion

DRAG BINGO NIGHT

As part of Pride Month celebrations in June, Cherry and Madano hosted “Drag Bingo Night”. This activity, designed to empower and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, returned for a second year after its huge success in 2023. Employees enjoyed a lively bingo game hosted by a talented drag performer. The night provided a wonderful opportunity to connect, have fun, and celebrate diversity, reinforcing the brands’ commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

PROMOTING DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL MOBILITY

Hanover’s “INspire” program is an employee- led initiative designed to promote workforce diversity and social mobility. Through partnerships with universities, Hanover engages with students from various socio- economic backgrounds to offer insights into the communications industry. This year, Hanover welcomed 40 students from the University of Westminster’s “Inclusive Futures: Insights” program. The day started with a panel where Hanover employees from various levels of seniority and teams shared stories about their backgrounds and careers, followed by a Q&A session. The students were then split into groups and tasked to develop a government affairs proposal, with the support and guidance of the panel members.

AN AWARD-WINNING DEI APPROACH

Hanover’s commitment and action toward diversity and inclusion were recognized twice in 2024. The brand was honoured with the “Best team approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion” at the PRCA UK Awards, as well as the 2024 Communique Awards for “Action on Workplace, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.” These recognitions highlight Hanover’s ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive environment for all, both internally and across the wider public relations industry.

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Small Worlds

In 2024, Madano’s DEI committee hosted a book club and a lunch-and-learn event in honour of British Black History Month. The book club featured discussions on Small Worlds by Caleb Azumah Nelson, exploring themes of identity, loneliness, community, and belonging through the lives of young black men living in London. The lunch-and- learn event was a celebration of black British art and cuisine, educating staff on the history of Black Britain with a focus on the arrival of African and Caribbean culture. Attendees enjoyed art displays, music, and a selection of African and Caribbean foods from a local black-owned business.

LENDING A HAND TO VULNERABLE YOUTH WITH COVENANT HOUSE

The NATIONAL Vancouver team dedicated a day of service to Covenant House Vancouver, an organization that provides vital care and support to youth experiencing homelessness and survivors of human trafficking. The team rolled up their sleeves and immersed themselves in various tasks, including taking inventory of clothing donations, and ensuring that these essential items were readily available for those in need. The team gained valuable insights by touring Covenant House Vancouver’s facilities and learning about the organization’s impactful programs and the challenges faced by the youth they serve. They also handwrote thank-you notes to donors to express gratitude for their ongoing support and contributions to Covenant House Vancouver’s campaigns. Through this volunteering experience, NATIONAL Vancouver not only lent a helping hand but also showcased its unwavering support for an organization that makes a profound difference in the lives of vulnerable youth.

DIVERSITY + INCLUSION DAY OF SERVICE (DIDS)

Padilla’s Diversity + Inclusion Day of Service (DIDS) offers employees one day off annually to perform community service related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). For instance, Jill Donahue and her Irish Terrier Tige volunteered with the Minnesota Department of Health Emergency Preparedness Coordinators. The dynamic duo—a registered therapy dog team through Pet Partners—provided an emotional outlet for attendees and education on how therapy animals can assist victims, families, and first responders during crises. Additionally, Leah Kondes and Kenny Devine used their DIDS time to volunteer with The BrandLab for a half-day PR planning session along with other Minnesota PRSA members. The organization empowers young BIPOC talent to launch their careers in the marketing and advertising industry.