Thu 14 Sep 2023
The conference Ethnic Minorities into Leadership on 19 October provides a roadmap for aspiring leaders in the civil service
Civil servants from ethnic minorities are increasingly reporting their backgrounds, as the latest civil service statistics have revealed. At 15.4% (up from 15% last year) is a record high and has increased every year in the previous decade: it was 9.6% ten years ago. However, they are still much less represented in senior grades compared to junior roles. Ethnic minorities at SCS level have the lowest representation rate at 10.5%. Still, this is up from 10.3% in 2022 and 4.7% in 2013.
Aspiring leaders from ethnic minorities often face unique challenges, but with the right mindset and strategic approach, these challenges can be transformed into powerful opportunities for personal growth and professional success. The conference Ethnic Minorities into Leadership offers the opportunity to reflect, make connections and gain the skills to help you achieve exactly that.
The conference returns on 19 October with an in-person event in London. The agenda provides a roadmap for aspiring leaders to navigate the challenges they face, building on testimonies from current and past civil service officials who have turned adversity into an advantage.
Lessons from ethnic minority leaders
Recognising one's unique perspective and cultivating resilience and mentorship are recurring themes, which speakers will address at the upcoming conference. Below are top tips that can help you be prepared for making the most of the inspirational presentations and hands-on workshops at Ethnic Minorities into Leadership London.
1. Embrace your unique perspective
The journey of an aspiring leader from an ethnic minority background begins with recognising and valuing their unique perspective, as Sherin Aminossehe, Director of Infrastructure at the Ministry of Defence, revealed in her keynote at the Ethnic Minorities into Leadership online event, which took place in June.
She recognised that diversity of thought and experience can be a tremendous asset in any organisation, including the civil service. Research has proven that diversity and inclusion in the workplace can lead to more comprehensive problem-solving, innovative policies, and a better understanding of the needs of a broader population.
Embracing your heritage and background will not only enrich your own leadership style but also contribute significantly to the effectiveness of your team and the organisation as a whole.
2. Cultivate resilience and perseverance
Challenges are an inherent part of any leadership journey, and for aspiring leaders from ethnic minorities, they may manifest in different forms. Discrimination, bias, and microaggressions can be challenging adversaries, but they should not define your path, as Justin Placide, Head of Net Zero Governance, Briefing and Fiscal Events & Co-Chair of the FAME Network and Chair of the Civil Service Race Forum, said at the Ethnic Minorities into Leadership online event.
He explained that those barriers are opportunities to cultivate resilience and perseverance because overcoming adversity strengthens character and hones leadership skills.
For Placide, by rising above these challenges, you prove your mettle and inspire others to do the same.
3. Seek mentorship and networking opportunities
Mentorship and networking are invaluable resources for any leader, and for aspiring leaders from ethnic minorities, they can be game changers, as we learned from the presentation of Bernadette Thompson, former senior civil servant and current Executive Director of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
In her breakout session, “Seeking out key enablers for your career progression and capitalising on your strengths”, she encouraged attendees to seek out mentors who have navigated similar paths and can provide guidance, support, and a sounding board for your ideas and aspirations.
She also noted that actively engaging in networking opportunities within and outside of your organisation is crucial. Building a diverse network will expose you to different perspectives, create potential collaborations, and open doors to new opportunities.
4. Advocate for inclusivity and representation
As an aspiring leader, one of your most powerful tools is your voice, and learning to communicate with confidence to make an impact is the theme of the breakout session conducted by professional voice coach Cath Baxter. The session on 19 October focuses on learning to use your voice to assert authority, overcome gender stereotypes, build credibility and trust, and empower future generations.
You will hear speakers reflect on using your voice as a powerful tool to advocate for inclusivity and representation at all levels of the civil service. Placide, for example, has said that by taking a stand for what is right, you not only create a more inclusive environment but also demonstrate your commitment to positive change.
5. Invest in continuous learning and development
Leadership is a journey, not a destination, and continuous learning is the fuel that propels it forward. The agenda of our conference Ethnic Minorities into Leadership is designed with that objective in mind.
Join the event on 19 October and take advantage of the workshops "Preparing for your next role" and "Getting through the sift and the interview", conducted by psychologist and former civil servant Richard Hillsdon.
At the conference, speakers will encourage you to seek training and educational opportunities that enhance your skills and knowledge. By being a lifelong learner, you stay relevant and inspire those around you to prioritise their own growth and development.
6. Leverage cultural intelligence
Understanding and effectively interacting with people from different cultural backgrounds, or cultural intelligence, is a critical skill for leaders in today's globalised world. As an aspiring leader from an ethnic minority, you possess a unique advantage.
Ethnic Minorities into Leadership is both a personal development and networking platform providing you with a unique opportunity to leverage your cultural intelligence by meeting civil servants from other departments or public sector organisations, thus fostering cross-cultural collaboration, bridging gaps, and promoting understanding within peers.
7. Lead by example
The most impactful leaders lead by example, and we have heard speakers reflect on the importance of demonstrating the values, behaviours, and work ethic you expect from your team members. Being authentic, transparent, and accountable in your actions is paramount.
Showing empathy and actively listening to the concerns of others are important qualities of a true leader. Such an approach creates a positive and empowering environment that encourages others to follow.
Ethnic Minorities into Leadership takes place in London on 19 October. The agenda has been released, and the speaker line-up will be announced shortly. Secure your place today!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Murielle Gonzalez, content strategy manager at Dods Events, is an experienced journalist and editor. She can be reached at murielle.gonzalez@totalpolitics.com.
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