Maezza Romero gaming career began in childhood and has since evolved into a full-fledged career. From impoving her reading skills through video games, to creating inclusive online spaces, to championing representation in an industry that hasn’t always welcomed underrepresented voices, maezza proves that diverse voices are always needed. Through projects like Cyber Squad, managing communities at scale, … Continue reading Maezza Romero: Shaping Safe, Inclusive Spaces in Gaming—From Cyber Squad to Romero Games Community”
Author: Barry Walsh
The Allyship Academy: Why being an Ally in the Workplace is more important than ever before
The Allyship Academy (TAA) was founded by Mark Fenton and Patricia Byron, driven by their shared passion for advancing inclusion and supporting women and other marginalised groups. Both bring decades of experience as DEI specialists, leadership experts, and executive coaches, having witnessed first-hand the gap between organisational policies and the genuine behaviours needed to foster … Continue reading The Allyship Academy: Why being an Ally in the Workplace is more important than ever before
From Small-Town Indiana to Global Leadership Communications: How Story Telling has Shaped Gina London’s Journey to Empower Authentic Storytelling in Business
Starting her journey in a small town in Indiana with a passion for storytelling, Gina forged a successful career in journalism that spanned major news organisations like CNN and impactful international volunteer-led work. Her deep understanding of narrative and communication eventually led her to found Language of Leadership, where she combines her media expertise with … Continue reading From Small-Town Indiana to Global Leadership Communications: How Story Telling has Shaped Gina London’s Journey to Empower Authentic Storytelling in Business
Meg O’Connell and her US based Global Disability Inclusion team is Championing Disability Inclusion Amidst DEI Funding Challenges
Meg O’Connell’s journey from her early work with the deaf community in St. Augustine, Florida to founding and leading Global Disability Inclusion (GDI) as CEO is truly remarkable. Meg and her team has been instrumental in driving meaningful change for disabled people in the corporate world, addressing long-standing gaps in workplace integration. One of their … Continue reading Meg O’Connell and her US based Global Disability Inclusion team is Championing Disability Inclusion Amidst DEI Funding Challenges
Intersport Elverys: Blending 175 years of Tradition and Innovation to Champion Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Sports Retail Market
Intersport Elverys, is one of Ireland’s oldest sports retailers. It was founded in 1847 and it has grown from a single shop into a national brand with 44 stores and around 750 employees, maintaining a strong family-owned ethos and deep commitment to supporting Irish sport at all levels. The company’s robust Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion … Continue reading Intersport Elverys: Blending 175 years of Tradition and Innovation to Champion Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Sports Retail Market
Bill Liao’s Journey from Self-Taught Engineer to Successful Entrepreneur and Global Changemaker who Drives Diversity in EdTech and the Environment
Serial entrepreneur Bill Liao began his journey as a self-taught hardware engineer in Melbourne, fixing computers while he and his wife worked dead-end jobs. A transformative personal development course and his wife’s involvement with the Hunger Project inspired a leap of faith: Bill left his job, moved into sales, and ultimately built two highly successful … Continue reading Bill Liao’s Journey from Self-Taught Engineer to Successful Entrepreneur and Global Changemaker who Drives Diversity in EdTech and the Environment
Gewardz Health: Making Affordable Healthcare Accessible for Every Irish SME and Community
Gewardz Health is based in Banbridge Co.Down and is a healthcare solutions provider established in 2019, originally focused on delivering enterprise-quality reward and retention programs to small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) traditionally underserved by mainstream providers. In response to client needs for affordable and accessible healthcare, Gewardz Health evolved in late 2022 to develop a … Continue reading Gewardz Health: Making Affordable Healthcare Accessible for Every Irish SME and Community
Networking Events
I have extensive experience co-hosting a variety of online and in-person events with respected organisations, with a particular focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). My recent work includes co-hosting panel discussions and innovative accessibility pilots for International People’s With Disabilities Day in partnership with CPL, convening high-level networking events such as the CAN Network … Continue reading Networking Events
Platform55: Revolutionising Support for Parents in the Workplace
Platform55 was co-founded out of a shared conviction that the existing workplace wasn’t working for working parents—or for countless others. Drawing on their personal journeys, Tracy Gunn (with a background in leadership development) and Michelle O'Keefe (from digital media) experienced firsthand the disconnect between workplace policy and reality, as well as the challenges of balancing … Continue reading Platform55: Revolutionising Support for Parents in the Workplace
Guest Speaking
Having been involved with DEI for more than 8 years and in that time I have been invited to be a guest speaker at a number of events. These include local, national or international events. I have been ask to present slides on a particular topic in DEI, been asked to be on a panel … Continue reading Guest Speaking
Job Coaching Programme
This course was developed through Rathmines College of Further Education Evening Courses. A nominal fee does apply It is also available through a personal 1:1 job coaching sessions or as part of Towards Work Job Coaching programme. The course itself explores areas such as: - How unconscious bias can get in the way of your … Continue reading Job Coaching Programme
Unconcious Bias Training
Throughout my time in Dell Technologies, Bank of Ireland and other organisations that are committed to empowering their workforce I have completed several Unconcious Bias training sessions. I have now developed my own training that explores: – Understanding Unconscious Bias – What are microaggressions – It’s impact on recruitment processes – Self-Assessment and awareness of … Continue reading Unconcious Bias Training
DEI in the Irish Education System
Having achieved 180 Leaving Certificate points and spent seven years in higher education, progressing from Level 5 to Level 9, I am acutely aware of the transformative power of education, as well as the gaps through which under-represented groups can fall during this journey. I have developed training programmes for higher education institutions that examines … Continue reading DEI in the Irish Education System
Neurodiversity Awareness Training – 5 Things Employers Should Know About Neurodiversity
I have developed a comprehensive training programme that explores the 5 areas that employers should know about Neurodiversity. The training explores: – Personal insights from both my own lived experience with neurodiverse and the experiences of those that I have previously been a job coach to. – An overview of the different conditions within the … Continue reading Neurodiversity Awareness Training – 5 Things Employers Should Know About Neurodiversity
Antonio Vega: Ex-Google, PHd Candidate Who is on a Mission to Make the Workplace Inclusive for All
With a background in mechatronics engineering and an MBA that broadened their perspective on business and leadership, the founder of Includership spent nearly nine years at Google in a variety of roles, including significant work in Diversity and Inclusion. This experience in a large, global company highlighted both the strategic importance and everyday challenges of … Continue reading Antonio Vega: Ex-Google, PHd Candidate Who is on a Mission to Make the Workplace Inclusive for All
PayGap.ie: The Award Winning Independent Platform Holding Companies in Ireland Accountable for their Gender Pay Reporting
Jen Keane is the founder PayGap.ie. Jen launched the site because of the lack of accessible, standardised gender pay gap data in Ireland. Drawing from her own challenges as a woman in tech, she built PayGap.ie as a central resource for collecting and publishing company pay gap reports. Her journey highlights the difficulties of gathering … Continue reading PayGap.ie: The Award Winning Independent Platform Holding Companies in Ireland Accountable for their Gender Pay Reporting
Your A-Z Guide To Creating Engaging DEI Content
I was lucky enough to attend and speak at both Samantha Kelly’s Social Media Fest at Maldron Hotel, Dublin Airport and Tenna Clark’s The Big Marketing Meet Up at the ICC Belfast. Both were fantastic events with lots of networking and more importantly takeaways to go back and work on. With guest speakers such as David … Continue reading Your A-Z Guide To Creating Engaging DEI Content
Business in the Community Ireland: working annually with over 500 people from marginalised communities towards employment
Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI) is at the forefront of driving positive change in Irish society, championing sustainability and social inclusion for over 25 years. As a leading advisor to businesses and communities, BITCI’s vision is to inspire a movement that addresses some of the most urgent challenges of our time—climate change and social … Continue reading Business in the Community Ireland: working annually with over 500 people from marginalised communities towards employment
Irish Stammering Assocation: Supporting over 50,000 People in Ireland Who Stammer
Stammering, affects approximately 1% of the population, meaning that over 50,000 people in Ireland live with this speech difference. The Irish Stammering Association (ISA) plays a vital role in supporting these individuals and their families, raising awareness, and advocating for greater understanding and inclusion across Irish society. Through a range of services, events, workplace and … Continue reading Irish Stammering Assocation: Supporting over 50,000 People in Ireland Who Stammer
Claire Twomey Award Winning Founder of Irelands First ADHD Coaching Platform
Claire Twomey, Ireland’s first ADHD coach with four industry-recognised accreditations, shares how her personal journey with ADHD shapes her strengths-based, empathetic approach at ADHD Connections. Driven by lived experience and a passion for ethical standards, she has founded pioneering initiatives like Divergent Nexus and Ireland’s first ADHD Coaching Collective, aiming to empower neurodivergent individuals, promote … Continue reading Claire Twomey Award Winning Founder of Irelands First ADHD Coaching Platform
Neatebox and Curry’s Team Up to Transform In-Store Accessibility with WelcoMe Service Across Ireland
In a world where accessibility and inclusion are increasingly recognised as essential, Gavin Neate's Neatebox is leading the charge with innovative solutions designed to empower disabled individuals. Gavin has had an incredible journey; from training guide dogs to pioneering technology that addresses everyday barriers faced by disabled people. Central to this mission is WelcoMe, a … Continue reading Neatebox and Curry’s Team Up to Transform In-Store Accessibility with WelcoMe Service Across Ireland
Caolan Kelly: How Sharing His Mental Health Journey Transformed His Path in DEI and Entrepreneurship
Caolan Kelly explores how authentic, lived experiences can drive meaningful social impact. Drawing from his own journey-leaving a successful engineering career to walk 1,500km across Europe for youth mental health-Caolan illustrates that personal stories, rather than credentials or strategic plans, are what truly connect, inspire, and mobilise others, especially within diversity, equity, and inclusion work. … Continue reading Caolan Kelly: How Sharing His Mental Health Journey Transformed His Path in DEI and Entrepreneurship
Accessibility Ireland – Digital access for everyone
Founded in 2023, Accessibility Ireland is dedicated to ensuring that everyone—including people with disabilities—has equal access to digital information, products, and services. Driven by a clear mission to bridge the significant gap in education and awareness around digital accessibility in Ireland, the organisation empowers companies to create inclusive digital experiences, from websites and apps to … Continue reading Accessibility Ireland – Digital access for everyone
Announcing Ireland’s 2050 Accelerator: A Launchpad for Global Green Tech
Building on its commitment to tackling pressing sustainability challenges, the 2050 Accelerator is entering its second year, run by Dogpatch Labs with support from the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) and in partnership with industry leaders Kerry Dairy Ireland, ESB, and Coillte. This programme, with the ambition of advancing global green tech, … Continue reading Announcing Ireland’s 2050 Accelerator: A Launchpad for Global Green Tech
inCharge: Simplifying Care for Families and Individuals
In a world where navigating care for loved ones can feel overwhelming, inCharge simplifies support for families and individuals alike. Founded by Karen McCormick a dedicated mother with a diverse background in community engagement, economic development, and co-production. inCharge is more than just an app; it's a mission to put individuals with disabilities and complex … Continue reading inCharge: Simplifying Care for Families and Individuals
Spikes Sight Words: A Creative Boardgame that Helps Dyslexic Children Engage With Reading.
Spike's Sight Words is more than just a board game; it's a creative solution born from a mother's desire to help her son engage with reading. The game's creator Sophie Bradley, drawing from her background in film and television, noticed how her son, unlike his sister, wasn't responding to traditional learning methods. This inspired her … Continue reading Spikes Sight Words: A Creative Boardgame that Helps Dyslexic Children Engage With Reading.
Debunking Myths About Reasonable Accommodations in the Workplace: Guidance for Irish Employers
Written by: Mohamed S Camara | Program Coordinator | Employers for Change Introduction Hiring and retaining staff with disabilities is critical to building an inclusive and diverse workplace. In Ireland, the Employment Equality Acts 1998-2015 make it clear that employers have a legal obligation to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. However, many myths … Continue reading Debunking Myths About Reasonable Accommodations in the Workplace: Guidance for Irish Employers
“Vially: Pioneering Digital Inclusion Through Accessibility Solutions”
Andrew Power - Chief Revenue Officer of Vially (formally IA Labs) In a world where digital accessibility is increasingly crucial, Vially (formerly IA Labs), has been at the forefront of driving change. With a mission to make the world more inclusive through technology, Vially has developed a platform that automates digital accessibility across design, development, … Continue reading “Vially: Pioneering Digital Inclusion Through Accessibility Solutions”
Innovative Summer Camps in Ireland for Children With Disabilities – Part 2
Ireland's dedication to fostering inclusive and innovative learning environments for children with disabilities is evident in the diverse array of summer camps now available across the country. Building on the foundation of STEM education and inclusive initiatives, these specialised camps are designed to provide engaging, accessible, and enriching experiences for young learners of all abilities. … Continue reading Innovative Summer Camps in Ireland for Children With Disabilities – Part 2
Innovative Summer Camps in Ireland for STEM and Diversity – Part 1
Ireland's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as well as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education is evident in the growing number of companies offering innovative summer camps for young learners. These organisations are at the forefront of shaping a more inclusive and technologically advanced future for Ireland's youth. From robotics and coding … Continue reading Innovative Summer Camps in Ireland for STEM and Diversity – Part 1
Mama’s Boobie Box: Creating Innovative Breastfeeding Solutions and Support for Breastfeeding Mothers
In the heart of Co. Clare, a unique business, has been quietly revolutionising the way we support breastfeeding mothers. Mama’s Boobie Box, founded by Petrina O’Halloran 2021, has rapidly grown from a small startup to an international success story, offering a range of innovative products and unwavering support for new mums. Born out of Petrina’s … Continue reading Mama’s Boobie Box: Creating Innovative Breastfeeding Solutions and Support for Breastfeeding Mothers
50 Awards in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) or Sustainability that Irish businesses can apply to in 2025
In 2025, Irish businesses have an unprecedented opportunity to showcase their commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), and sustainability through the landscape of national awards. From the National Diversity and Inclusion Awards celebrating workplace excellence to the PwC Business Post Sustainable Business Awards recognising innovative ESG practices, companies across Ireland can highlight their transformative … Continue reading 50 Awards in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) or Sustainability that Irish businesses can apply to in 2025
Transforming Neurodiversity: How Amanda Kirby’s Work Has Diagnosed and Supported More Than 100,000 People
When I was 5, my mum attended a Dyspraxia Ireland conference where an expert named Amanda Kirby was speaking. As she listened, my mum began ticking off symptoms in her head, recognising behaviours I exhibited. This led to an assessment where I was diagnosed with dyspraxia. Fast forward 34 years, and Amanda Kirby has become … Continue reading Transforming Neurodiversity: How Amanda Kirby’s Work Has Diagnosed and Supported More Than 100,000 People
Visually Impaired Rugby Pioneer: Ian McKinley’s Extraordinary Journey from Career Ending Injury to Italian Rugby International
Ian McKinley's remarkable rugby journey epitomises extraordinary resilience and determination. Born in Dublin, McKinley's sporting passion emerged early, playing Gaelic football and taking up rugby in St. Columba's College, before going on to the Leinster Rugby Academy and making 6 appearences for Leinster's first team. However while playing for UCD Ian got a devastating eye injury threatened … Continue reading Visually Impaired Rugby Pioneer: Ian McKinley’s Extraordinary Journey from Career Ending Injury to Italian Rugby International
The Frequency School – A Global Music Initiative Uniting Women from 195 Countries to Amplify Women’s Voices at Davos World Economic Forum
The Frequency School is a groundbreaking initiative which unites women from all 195 countries through a global song titled “195,” inspired by the vision of producing a truly global song with a woman from all countries. Spearheaded by Martina Fuchs and produced by U.S. Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum artist Maejor, this project seeks to amplify women’s … Continue reading The Frequency School – A Global Music Initiative Uniting Women from 195 Countries to Amplify Women’s Voices at Davos World Economic Forum
How OnePageCRM’s Founder and CEO Michael Fitzgerald Turned His Dyslexia into a Business Advantage
OnePageCRM, founded by Michael FitzGerald, is an innovative sales management platform that reimagines Customer Relationship Management (CRM) for small businesses. Leveraging his experience with dyslexia and background in engineering and product design, Michael created a CRM solution that prioritises efficiency and user-friendly design. The platform's unique "Action Stream" feature provides a holistic view of sales … Continue reading How OnePageCRM’s Founder and CEO Michael Fitzgerald Turned His Dyslexia into a Business Advantage
From the Politics to Purpose: How Kian Bakhtiari’s The People is Redefining Marketing for Social Change
Before launching The People, Kian Bakhtiari's journey was deeply rooted in a desire to create meaningful change. With a degree in Sociology from the University of Leicester, He began his career in politics, working as a researcher at the House of Parliament. There, he focused on assessing the impact of government cuts on local communities, … Continue reading From the Politics to Purpose: How Kian Bakhtiari’s The People is Redefining Marketing for Social Change
50 Irish People With Disabilities or Mental Health issues that can be your next guest speaker
Today is International Persons With A Disability Day. To celebrate I created a list of 50 extraordinary Irish people who are breaking barriers, challenging stigma, and inspiring change through their lived experiences with disabilities or mental health challenges. These individuals offer unique perspectives, compelling stories, and powerful insights, making them exceptional choices for your next … Continue reading 50 Irish People With Disabilities or Mental Health issues that can be your next guest speaker
International Mens Day: Irish organisations that can help men with Health or Mental Health issues
As we mark International Men’s Day, it’s essential to shine a light on the pressing issues disproportionately affecting men, many of which often go unnoticed. The statistics are shockingly, 79% of all suicides are men, highlighting the critical need for mental health support. Meanwhile, men account for 85% of the homeless population and 70% of … Continue reading International Mens Day: Irish organisations that can help men with Health or Mental Health issues
Mei Lin Yap: Breaking Barriers to Show Employers the True Potential of People with Down Syndrome
Mei Lin Yap, is a committed advocate and accomplished professional, brings an empowering message to people with Down Syndrome and to those who support a more inclusive workforce. Mei Lin has broken down barriers by building a fulfilling career spanning over 15 years, which sadly is not common place for people with Down Syndrome in … Continue reading Mei Lin Yap: Breaking Barriers to Show Employers the True Potential of People with Down Syndrome
Izzy Wheels: Empowering Wheelchair Users to ‘Stand Out’ with Art and Style
Izzy Wheels is redefining mobility with a splash of creativity and inclusivity, championing their empowering slogan, “If you can’t stand up, stand out.” Founded by sisters Ailbhe and Izzy Keane, Izzy Wheels creates vibrant, artistic wheelchair covers that allow users to express their unique style and personality. What began as a college project has blossomed … Continue reading Izzy Wheels: Empowering Wheelchair Users to ‘Stand Out’ with Art and Style
Philip Black, CEO of CSRN: A charity supporting non-profits around the globe responding to crisis supported by the One Young World network
Philip Black's journey journey leading up to leadership roles at the Crisis Student Response Network (CSRN) and Action for Refugee Life (AREL) was rooted in both academic and early career experiences. Initially, while studying Economics and Marketing at the University of Ulster, Philip secured a digital strategy internship with PwC . This introduced him to … Continue reading Philip Black, CEO of CSRN: A charity supporting non-profits around the globe responding to crisis supported by the One Young World network
Black and Irish: Amplifying Voices, Driving Change, and Fostering Inclusion in Ireland
It was great to Pierre Yimbog., Co-founder of Black and Irish. The grassroots movement has become a powerful voice for the Black and mixed-race community in Ireland. Born in June 2020 as an Instagram page in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, Black and Irish began as a platform to share the stories and experiences … Continue reading Black and Irish: Amplifying Voices, Driving Change, and Fostering Inclusion in Ireland
Conor Lynch: Having Sold His Own Marketing Agency Conor is Now Focusing on Helping Others With His New Venture- Career Lab
Conor's career journey began with a marketing degree, followed by various roles in the field. In 1997, he transitioned into internet marketing at a technology firm, recognising the early potential of the online space. Over the next 25 years, Conor worked with notable brands like Vodafone and RaboDirect, contributing to award-winning campaigns. His entrepreneurial ventures … Continue reading Conor Lynch: Having Sold His Own Marketing Agency Conor is Now Focusing on Helping Others With His New Venture- Career Lab
50 Irish Companies, Programmes or Initatives Making Education More Diverse and Inclusive Part 2
The second part of my series highlighting 50 Irish companies, programmes, and initiatives that are actively working to make education more diverse and inclusive. Again, the focus of the companies and initiatives on this article is to enhance access to education for underrepresented groups. The featured organisations include a mix of nonprofits, educational institutions, and … Continue reading 50 Irish Companies, Programmes or Initatives Making Education More Diverse and Inclusive Part 2
50 Irish Companies, Programmes or Initatives Making Education More Diverse and Inclusive Part 1
This article highlights 50 Irish companies, programmes, and initiatives that are actively working to make education more diverse and inclusive. This is the first part of two articles showcasing these efforts, with a focus on enhancing access to education for underrepresented groups. The featured organisations include a mix of nonprofits, educational institutions, and businesses, all … Continue reading 50 Irish Companies, Programmes or Initatives Making Education More Diverse and Inclusive Part 1
The Caring in Business Conference is one of Ireland’s most important events for Diversity Equity and Inclusion
Today, we're speaking with Ciara Mallon about the highly anticipated Caring in Business – Where Technology Meets Humanity conference, set to take place on Thursday, 10th October 2024 at the Conrad Hotel in Dublin. This one-day B2B event brings together global technology giants and innovative Irish firms to explore the intersection of technology and corporate … Continue reading The Caring in Business Conference is one of Ireland’s most important events for Diversity Equity and Inclusion
AHEAD Ireland’s WAM Programme Approaches 700 Successful Placements. At the same time Shaping Inclusive Employment for Employers
AHEAD Ireland is a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to fostering inclusive environments in education and employment for individuals with disabilities. By focusing on further education, higher education, and graduate employment, AHEAD strives to remove barriers that hinder the participation of students and graduates with disabilities. The organization provides crucial information and support to students, educators, … Continue reading AHEAD Ireland’s WAM Programme Approaches 700 Successful Placements. At the same time Shaping Inclusive Employment for Employers
Irvine Training: Tailored Workshops for Not-For-Profit’s, Social Enterprises and Traditional Businesses
As founder of Irvine Training was driven by necessity to start the company during the post-Celtic Tiger era, a time when many were seeking to retrain and upskill. Initially focused on training in marketing, governance, and funding, Irvine Training has evolved to offer bespoke courses tailored to various sectors, including social enterprises and traditional businesses. … Continue reading Irvine Training: Tailored Workshops for Not-For-Profit’s, Social Enterprises and Traditional Businesses