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.

Joshua Smith

In the industry that I am most known for, which is photography, I definitely feel that the photography world, when it comes to being provided big opportunities with mainstream companies, artist, celebrities, etc. is not as inclusive as it should be. As a black editorial, fashion, portrait photographer, who has dabbled in many realms of photography, I have gained much insight on how to be better each day with my work. It reflects in every photoshoot that I continuously do. In every session, I. get better and better. Read more>>

Taylor Sanchez

Having an inclusive workspace is so important to me. At my salon, hair cuts are just hair cuts. The mission here at Hair by Taylor Sanchez is to have a place where all members of LGBTQIA+ community and allies are able to feel relaxed, safe, and most importantly; themselves. While the salon is registered with Strands for Trans, it doesn’t stop there. All consultations that are held in person or over the phone are very in-depth considering all things not only surrounding your hair, but your lifestyle as well. Read more>>

Lucile Lynch

California’s Employment First Policy was signed into law in 2013 making opportunities for integrated, competitive employment one of the state’s highest priorities for working aged individuals with developmental disabilities, regardless of the severity of their disabilities. The purpose behind this statute is to improve the employment opportunities and employment rates for those with disabilities. California is not alone, as the importance of employment for or of those with disabilities has been emphasized internationally as seen in Article 27 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Read more>>