One of the most powerful things about being a business owner is the ability to create a work environment according to your own principles. So many of us have worked within a company or organization and been disappointed by the way things were run, the way team members were treated. So, we wanted to ask some fantastic business owners and operators how they’ve gone about creating a more inclusive workplace.

Daniel Palmer

Creating a truly inclusive workplace starts with listening — really listening — to people’s stories, needs, and experiences. For me, inclusivity isn’t a box to tick; it’s something deeply personal and foundational to everything we’ve built with the Daniel K. Palmer brand. Growing up in Australia and then working in cities like London, New York, and LA, I saw firsthand how diverse voices and perspectives can elevate a space — and also how damaging it can be when people feel unseen or unwelcome. Read more>>

Lorena Lorenzo

As a latino caribbean woman, an immigrant and a small business owner in toronto, is important for me to create the most comfortable enviroment for all clients, and being inclusive is a must. Everything started when I found myself getting all types of requests from all my female clients, when I used to work on a st shop that had only the basics, theirs needs for more privacy, comfort, better use of the material for coverage, in case the person was somehow showing some skin. then I started to realize that also my queer clients as well, were in need of a positive and more acceptance space, where they could feel safe and get done all their tattoo projects with an artist they could trust. Read more>>

Jove Meyer

When I first entered the wedding industry in 2008, marriage wasn’t even a legal right for me. Yet, there I was, pouring my heart into making other people’s weddings an authentic reflection of their love, their story, and their personalities. I vividly remember standing by the dance floor, ready to cue the DJ for the couple’s first dance. The emotion in the air was palpable, and as they swayed together, so in love, the song playing moved me to tears. In that moment, I realized that this beautiful celebration — something I so deeply believed in — was not something I could participate in myself. And it was all because of who I love. Read more>>

Mya Harris

Creating an inclusive workplace starts with understanding that every individual brings something unique to the table. Inclusion isn’t just about physical accommodations, but about embracing the diverse ways people think, work, and problem-solve. My personal experience has taught me that inclusion is a mindset, one that encourages us to look beyond our assumptions and value the strengths that each person can contribute. This shift in perspective is vital to creating an environment where everyone can thrive, no matter their background, identity, or abilities. Read more>>