In June, FARE hosted a deeply insightful webinar, “Embracing Authenticity: Reclaiming the Code Switch.” The discussion centered on how Black professionals often feel compelled to “code switch” at the expense of their authenticity. The panelists shared their personal journeys and provided valuable advice on cultivating inclusive workplaces.
Nicole Ridley, FARE’s Executive Director and webinar moderator, kicked off the event with a powerful message: “In today’s competitive work environment, authenticity is often sacrificed for conformity.” She then invited the four panelists to discuss their experiences navigating homogenous corporate environments and code-switching throughout their careers.
Brian Seymour II, Principal and Founder of Prosperitage Wealth, candidly shared about his ongoing journey toward authenticity in his professional life. “Trying to stay true and authentic to who I am at all times is difficult,” Seymour noted. “But organizations and communities like [FARE] help me lean into my more authentic self.”
Giavonni Lucas, SVP, Chief Diversity and Talent Acquisition Officer at Nationwide, reflected on the challenges he faced early in his career and the importance of mentorship. “Having a group of mentors and coaches who I called my trusted advisors helped me navigate the corporate culture and accelerate my development,” Lucas said. He also emphasized the value of feedback, saying, “Feedback is a gift. You should always open your gifts. Even if you might not like what you receive, it provides perspective and helps you grow.”
The panelists also discussed the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving business success. Lucas highlighted that “having diverse perspectives, points of view, and backgrounds elevates business.” Alicia Tennell, Venture Analyst at Franklin Templeton Strategic Ventures, added that allies should be bold in acknowledging and celebrating cultural differences.
“As a Black woman, one of the elements that stood out the most in my journey was navigating the corporate landscape around Black hair,” Tennell said. “I was taught I wouldn’t succeed unless my hair was straightened. Joining and engaging in our Black Empowerment Network at work helped me embrace my natural hair and educate my coworkers about the beauty and diversity of Black hairstyles.”
Deaderick Jones, Vice President at Osaic, emphasized the importance of bringing critical issues to leadership’s attention. “We’ve begun aggressively bringing those types of things to the forefront of leadership because if no one speaks up, then the people at the top don’t know what the needs are,” Jones said. “We all have a responsibility to step outside what is normative for us.”
As the webinar concluded, the panelists left the audience with words of encouragement and wisdom. Tennell urged attendees to bring their whole selves to work, stating, “You are all really talented people, and if an employer wants all those great facets from you, they get to take the whole package. Be bold and know that your value-add is your entire package–so let them have all of you.” Lucas reinforced this sentiment, advising, “Protect who you are with extraordinary care.”
We thank our panelists and attendees for making this webinar a significant and meaningful event. We look forward to continuing these vital conversations and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
For more insights and advice from our panelists, watch the replay of the “Embracing Authenticity: Reclaiming the Code Switch” webinar.
Featured Panelists
- Deaderick Jones, Vice President, Broker Dealer Compliance Training, Osaic
- Giavonni Lucas, SVP, Chief Diversity and Talent Acquisition Officer, Nationwide
- Alicia Tennell, Venture Analyst, Franklin Templeton Strategic Ventures
- Brian Seymour II, Principal and Founder, Prosperitage Wealth
Moderator
- Nicole Ridley, Executive Director, FARE
