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.

Andres Leal

Inclusion means more than just diversity—it’s about making sure everyone feels valued and has the chance to grow. I’ve worked in places where language or background held people back, and that shaped my view. At Bright Talent Group, we break those barriers by teaching in both English and Spanish and giving hands-on opportunities to everyone. That’s how we create real access and impact. Read more>>

Kristen Beck

Creating an inclusive workplace and a business that is an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community has always been a top priority for me. The wedding industry is, at its core, an industry that is based on love. If you are in the wedding industry I feel it is paramount to be accepting AND to celebrate all love stories. Read more>>

Adam Taylor

For me, creating an inclusive workplace means making sure the stories we tell and the people telling them reflect real, diverse experiences. I consistently highlight Black and queer stories in my work, and currently, I’m producing a feature drama about two Black queer boxers in the 1950s, which is being produced by a Black woman. It’s essential to me that the people behind the camera reflect the communities we’re representing, as it leads to richer, more authentic storytelling. Read more>>

Karlene Clark

Continuing to share with people the importance of equity, diversity and inclusion is important to me. I’ve worked on front line jobs where I wanted people on both sides of the desk to see themselves and feel welcome in the space. As an artist, having moments such as hearing someone is color blind and being able to find a way to paint something so they can at least see color gradations is so fulfilling! Read more>>