Diversity and Inclusion in Action: A Dynamic Event for the Annual Cycle of Novartis
The Objective
One of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies sought our expertise to design and deliver their annual cycle event, an off-site gathering for over 250 employees, focusing on the critical themes of diversity and inclusion. The goal was to create a full-day workshop that not only educated participants on the fundamentals of diversity and inclusion but also strengthened team connections and inspired a collective commitment to cultivating an inclusive workplace culture.
Our Approach
We developed a comprehensive program that blended learning, interaction, and inspiration to engage a large and diverse audience effectively:
Learning Element: We began the day with a tailored workshop on the essentials of diversity and inclusion. This interactive session explored the value of diverse perspectives, the challenges faced when inclusion is not prioritized, and practical steps participants could take to encourage inclusivity within their teams.
Team Building Activities: Participants engaged in dynamic group activities that encouraged collaboration, empathy, and teamwork, while custom designed board games highlighted the value of individuality and diversity within teams. These games helped participants uncover their unique contributions, better understand themselves and their colleagues, and experience, in a hands-on and immersive way, the importance of honoring their individuality and its impact on their teams, organization, and broader community.
Inspirational Keynote: The day concluded with an energizing keynote presentation that tied together the themes of diversity and inclusion while motivating participants to become advocates for change within their organization.
Engaging a Large Audience
Managing a group of over 250 employees in an indoor space on a nuanced topic like diversity and inclusion required a creative and inclusive approach. By integrating interactive exercises, relatable case studies, and open discussions, we ensured active engagement throughout the day. We used storytelling and real-world examples to make the concepts relatable and actionable. The combination of physical team-building activities and thought-provoking board games encouraged participants to step out of their comfort zones, connect with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, and appreciate the value of varied perspectives.
The Results
The event was a resounding success, reflected in the enthusiastic participation and glowing feedback from attendees. Participants gained a deeper understanding of diversity and inclusion principles and practical strategies to enhance inclusivity within their teams. The team-building activities not only strengthened interpersonal connections but also helped participants experience the transformative power of individuality and inclusion.
The CEO, who attended the entire event and participated on stage in various activities, emphasized the significant impact of the day on employee morale and the company’s broader diversity and inclusion goals. A key outcome was the creation of a network of participants committed to advancing diversity and inclusion, further embedding these values into the organization’s culture.
Conclusion
This full-day workshop demonstrated how thoughtfully designed learning experiences can raise awareness, improve inclusion, and enhance team dynamics in a large group setting. By combining interactive learning, immersive activities, and inspirational moments, we ensured that participants left the event feeling empowered to make meaningful changes in their work environment.
If you’re looking to elevate your leadership culture and drive organizational success, let’s collaborate to design a customized program for your team. Contact us to take the first step toward creating a more inclusive and impactful workplace.