It’s been a big impact year for diversity and inclusion advocate Gloria Yuen- the Emerging Leader in the Private Sector winner at last year’s Women’s Agenda Leadership Awards.
She won the award for her work in developing cultural inclusion across Corporate Australia, including NAB where she is the Chair of Cultural Inclusion Employee Resource Group.
“It was a recognition that helped me finding and defining my identity beyond my career,” says Yuen. “The visibility and opportunity from this award had me ponder about who I really am.
I was very good at compartmentalising various part of me but I have now found the courage to just be me with all my differences.”
A risk management expert solving societal and business problems, Yuen says owning her identity has allowed her to focus on her strengths and work that align with her values, energy and expertise.
“I am now confident to authentically influence communities, C-tables and boardrooms,” she adds.
Generously taking time out of her busy schedule, Yuen caught up with us to share with us her thoughts on diversity and inclusion progress in corporate, unintended polarisation in the fight for equality and being your own cheerleader.
On accepting the award, you noted that a lack of celebration of diverse leadership styles has made it hard for culturally and racially diverse leaders to progress into leadership roles — have any of your ideas around this point changed in the past 12 months? Is it getting better at a satisfactory pace?
Thankful to all the activists advocates and experts in shining the spotlight on ESG which undoubtedly has also accelerated the progress on intersectional inclusion and progression, especially for culturally and racially diverse women. It is commendable to see more researches and reports from WOCA, DCA, WOB, Lowy, APS, CEW, Macquarie and EY naming just a few. The focus is pleasing, momentum is great but the data is disheartening and the actual progress is slow. We all need to play a part for ALL women which takes ownership. The question is what you can individually do to make it happen, a little faster. I am advising on and co-creating a few projects in fixing the systems, not the women.
What are you most concerned about now in 2023, regarding challenges facing women (or others) in your industry?
People risk – and I define that as a risk of people giving up on people, with high likelihood and extreme consequence. Every step we take and every change we create will face into unintended polarisation and division, especially in the fight for justice and equality. How can we best manage it?
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve learned when it comes to leadership?
‘Clear is kind’ by Brene Brown and I apply that from within. Provide absolute clarity to self and to others. Be clear on the why, the what and the so what in all conscious decisions.
Any quick tips for those who might be hesitating about putting their hand up for an opportunity – whether it’s for an award, a promotion or something else?
You have to be the biggest believer and cheerleader for yourself. You will be surprised and amazed how your action can create life-changing moments for yourself and inspire so many others. Keep going and go bigger!