In today's social, political, and corporate climates, embracing a multitude of perspectives has been proven to lead to a unified vision that propels organizations toward success. Research from McKinsey & Company shows that companies with diverse teams are 35% more likely to outperform their industry peers. The advantages of diversity aren't just financial but also extend to fostering positive work environments, nurturing employee engagement, and enhancing problem-solving capabilities — overall creating a better work-life for employees.  

Executive Speakers Bureau is proud to represent a strong roster of esteemed speakers who have proven, game-changing ideas about the transformative world of diversity and inclusion. We are excited to introduce you to a select four who bring their own unique perspectives and experiences to the table. Each of these leaders champions the notion that diverse perspectives are not only positive for work but also vital for driving profitable business outcomes.

Kim Blue: Changing Diversity in the Fastest Growing Industry and Beyond

Kim Blue, former Vice President of People Experience for Zoom and Senior HR Leader for ESPN and Microsoft, is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion. Her work at Zoom has garnered attention from the entire tech industry, and in 2021 she was awarded Top 10 Diverse Leaders by the Tech Inclusion Conference. With her extensive background in reshaping the tech world and ushering in an entirely new mindset on equity, inclusion, and diversity, Blue provides invaluable insights into the tangible benefits of embracing diverse perspectives. 

Her keynote speeches emphasize the link between inclusive workplaces and organizational excellence. Blue shares her experiences in shaping diverse teams for some of the largest, most cutting-edge companies of the modern work era. She equips leaders with strategies to build a culture of inclusivity that fosters collaboration, innovation, and heightened employee engagement. 

Blue will meet you wherever your organization is along its path to a more profitable and inclusive environment. She can help you build a culture to attract top talent, redesign your hybrid work model with flexibility and innovation, and create a paradigm shift in the overall consciousness of a team. Her expertise lies in guiding organizations to view diversity as a strategic advantage that drives positive change and cultivates a unified vision for success.

Dr. Kevin Ahmaad Jenkins: Cultural Competency, It’s Life or Death

Dr. Kevin Ahmaad Jenkins is a dynamic speaker and advocate for social justice in a variety of fields. As a previous award-winning Journalist and on-field announcer for Triple-A baseball, he has spent over a decade fine-tuning his voice to hit home for audiences with impact. But his real mission begins in the healthcare field. 

Dr. Jenkins is a Lecturer at the University of Pennsylvania and a Core Investigator at the Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion (CHERP) at the Corporal Crescenz VA Medical Center in Philadelphia. His mountains of research into the racial disparities within the healthcare system have uncovered truths he now shares with audiences around the world. From studying how stress-related diseases disproportionately affect the Black community to identifying how racism impacts workplaces, communities, and the individual, Dr. Jenkins is at the heart of research driving our society to a more equitable and inclusive place. 

His keynote speeches revolve around the concept of rebuilding the corporate structure with diversity, equity, and inclusion in mind. He provides a blueprint on how to do this and a safe structure to invite in critical conversations. By embracing cultural competence, leaders not only empower their teams but also lay the foundation for a harmonious and inclusive work environment that thrives on diverse perspectives.

Charlene Wheeless: Empowering Diverse Voices through CHOICE Not Chance

Charlene Wheeless is a seasoned communications and public affairs executive who champions the importance of amplifying diverse voices. After cutting her teeth in the human resources and public relations fields, she was appointed Principal Vice President of Corporate Affairs for a $40 billion global infrastructure company where she was responsible for external and internal communications regarding reputation risk management, sustainability, and issue management. 

On stage, she combines her sage corporate guidance with real lived experiences as a woman of color and cancer survivor. Her keynote speeches focus on the role of effective communication in fostering diversity and inclusion. Wheeless's background in corporate communications equips her with a unique perspective on how communication strategies can contribute to an inclusive work culture. 

She empowers leaders with one guiding principle: create a culture of CHOICE not chance. Through this mindset, she provides the tools to elevate diverse voices, creates platforms for marginalized communities, and inspires a sense of belonging. Wheeless’s insights highlight the fact that embracing diverse perspectives isn't just a moral imperative, but a strategic imperative that leads to improved decision-making, enhanced innovation, and lasting business success.

Spencer West: Redefining Possible and Reshaping Opinions of Inclusion

Spencer West’s story alone will motivate you to redefine possible, opening you up to a more inclusive world. After losing both legs at the age of five, West went on to climb and summit Mount Kilimanjaro as an adult with only his arms and a wheelchair. His personal journey has reshaped many peoples’ opinions of what capable looks like and underscores the importance of embracing diverse backgrounds and abilities.

His keynote speeches transcend traditional barriers, offering a unique lens through which to view the strength of diverse perspectives. By sharing his story of conquering challenges, Spencer inspires audiences to overcome limitations, tap into their inherent potential, and contribute authentically to their organizations. His insights shed light on the idea that embracing diversity doesn't just enrich workplaces – it fuels a culture of innovation and compassion that propels both individuals and organizations forward.

Diverse perspectives are not just a hallmark of inclusion; they are a catalyst for transformation and progress. The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Keynote Speakers showcased in this article are trailblazers who recognize the power of embracing diversity in the workplace. Reach out to Executive Speakers Bureau today to secure one of these exceptional speakers for your next event, and embark on a journey toward a unified vision that thrives on diversity and inclusion.