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.

Jas Kitterman

As a portrait photographer, you take on a responsibility to help people feel their best and to represent them at their most powerful. So inclusivity has naturally become a pillar of my creative works and business. Growing up as a closeted queer person of color (in the South) wasn’t always the easiest. And I know that if I had seen people like myself represented and empowered in the media, then maybe my younger self would have found their path sooner. So I try to create the art that I wish I had seen and tell stories that are not often represented. Read more>>

Hannah McKernan

As Solstizio Studios grows we are always looking for the opportunity to grow not only as a business but, personal growth within the company as well. Solstizio is a proud women owned business, and with that being said we want everyone and anyone who works for us to be proud of who they work for. I as a business owner want to make sure we are dedicated to making everyone we work with feel welcomed, whether you’re a client or and employee we want you to feel valued & like you have a voice. Read more>>

Kirstie Pike and Christine Diaz

Hi there! We are Kirstie Pike and Christine Diaz, co-founders of On Airplane Mode. We are excited to share more information on how we work with brands to help them create a more inclusive workplace for LGBTQ+ people. Some of the ways we help companies with their inclusivity is through consulting them on establishing non-discrimination policies, offering comprehensive healthcare benefits for all members of the LGBTQ+ community, and providing gender-neutral bathrooms for their employees and clients. Read more>>

Kelly Huskins

During my furniture painting journey, I observed a certain level of exclusivity among brands within the industry. It appeared that each brand had a dedicated following, but many of these enthusiasts were more devoted to the brand itself rather than the craft. Upon founding Eye Love Hue, I made it my mission to create an inclusive environment that honors and celebrates artists, regardless of the product they choose to utilize. Ultimately, my focus is centered on the artists themselves, as they are the true driving force behind the beauty and creativity of the craft. Read more>>

Aisha DeBerry

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) says, is ”the achievement of a work environment in which all individuals are treated fairly and respectfully, have equal access to opportunities and resources, and can contribute fully to the organization’s success.” This is truly the crux on inclusivity. My advice is simple, get to know people. It starts with created strategic spaces where this can happen. We are in a post pandemic world where many companies offer a remote or hybrid design and while this can be great for so many it has it’s challenges in creating engagement. Read more>>