VisitBritain, in collaboration with pro-social organisation New Intent, has unveiled its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Pathway. This initiative aims to bolster the understanding and deeper integration of DEI principles across workplaces and event designs.
Set to launch on 20 September 2023, this online guide provides comprehensive definitions and best practices to aid British partners in grasping the essence of DEI. It delves into its significance in transforming events and offers actionable advice to help organisations and event teams drive positive change.
Paul Black, VisitBritain’s Head of Business Events, emphasized the crucial role the events industry plays in ensuring inclusivity. He stated, “Embedding DEI into event design can foster stronger communities, enhance participation, and forge more meaningful connections. This guide, an extension of our ‘future of events’ series, is a testament to our commitment to these ideals.”
Rory Archibald, the founder of New Intent, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the necessity of embracing DEI for a brighter, more inclusive future. He remarked, “Events that champion DEI foster innovation and collaboration, breaking down barriers and enriching global communities. The DEI Pathway, co-created with VisitBritain, underscores our dedication to building a world where everyone feels valued and welcome.”
This initiative follows VisitBritain’s ‘Future of Events’ series, which includes educational masterclasses for city convention bureaus. The series has previously introduced sustainability toolkits and roundtables in collaboration with GDS-Movement and isla, guiding regions and cities towards eco-friendly event planning. Additionally, in September 2022, in partnership with #MEET4IMPACT, a ‘Legacy and Impact’ Toolkit was released, assisting CVBs in crafting impactful strategies for hosting sustainable events.