Building productive teams

Four-stage journey towards inclusive leadership

Key Takeaways:

Jennifer Brown outlines a four-stage journey towards inclusive leadership: Unaware, Aware, Active, and Advocate, emphasising personal growth and social responsibility.

Stage 1: Unaware

People are oblivious to issues of inclusion and exclusion, believing there isn't a problem or not understanding it.

Stage 2: Aware

Individuals awaken to the realities of bias, discrimination, and the need for inclusion, often prompted by personal experiences or exposure to information. This highlights the importance of shared experiences in fostering understanding.

Stage 3: Active

This phase involves using newfound awareness actively, experimenting with language, sharing truths, and beginning to lead in inclusive practices. Individuals begin to use their voice and take risks, showcasing that vulnerability is key to becoming an inclusive leader.

Stage 4: Advocate

Aspirational stage where individuals actively push for change and push for inclusivity, demonstrating confidence and relentlessness in their efforts.

This model emphasises the importance of embracing the journey of evolution, acknowledging that individuals may find themselves at different stages for various aspects of inclusion. Progress may involve setbacks, highlighting the non-linear nature of personal growth.

The goal is to normalise the journey towards inclusivity, encouraging more people to actively participate in creating equitable outcomes.

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