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Hey there Risers & Thrivers, 

On this episode, we’re sitting down for an inspiring conversation with DEI expert and founder of Creative Jam Session, Omena Ukeleghe. We discussed: 

• Omena’s upbringing in a Nigerian household and the example her mother set advocating for herself in the workplace

  
  



• Her personal experience navigating racism and discrimination at work, as well as her mental health journey and how she overcame adversity and channeled it to champion change

  
  



• Where companies are going wrong with DEI strategies and the importance of long-term strategies, involving employee groups, and starting diversity effort early 

  
  

Janine and Omega also get real about the impacts of microaggressions, generational trauma, and the need for companies to do more than performative allyship. This raw and revealing episode provides valuable insights for organizations and individuals alike.

Happy Listening! 

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Intro/Outro & Interlude Music: Music by ⁠oussama arichi⁠ from ⁠Pixabay

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Acknowledgments

Intro/Outro & Interlude Music: Music by ⁠⁠oussama arichi⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠

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Timestamps

0:00-10:00 - Introduction to Omena's background and founding Creative Jam Sessions 

10:00-20:00 - Lack of awareness around racism and microaggressions growing up. Omena's experience with workplace discrimination and bullying that impacted their mental health. 

20:00-30:00 - How Omena navigated workplace dynamics and became a diversity advocate. Issues with performative diversity initiatives in companies.  

30:00-40:00 - The importance of long-term strategies and leadership buy-in for DEI. Involving Employee Resource Groups for meaningful representation.

40:00-50:00 - Best corporate DEI practices & discussion around quotes

50:00-60:00 - Omena's experience with mental health and desire to help others. Reflections on personal growth and looking to the future of DEI efforts.

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References

Why I'm No Longer Talking to White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge