In an era where diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are at the forefront of organisational priorities, Thoughtworks is creating its own blueprint for reshaping the DEI initiatives. Leading the charge is Dipsi Thakkar Kundal, the head of DEI at Thoughtworks. With a keen focus on fostering an inclusive workplace for employees of all identities, Kundal shares invaluable insights into Thoughtworks’ innovative approach to supporting its diverse workforce.
This conversation delves into Thoughtworks’ innovative approach to DEI, its same-sex parent policy, initiatives like Interning with Pride and much more.
Can you provide an overview of Thoughtworks’ approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how it’s integrated into the company’s values and practices?
As a people first organisation, Thoughtworks is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion at the workplace. Thoughtworks prioritises diversity of thought, background, and experience, and actively seeks talent from diverse communities.
Initiatives like Interning with Pride and inclusive parental policies also demonstrate Thoughtworks’ dedication to supporting employees of all identities. We prioritise creating a supportive environment through practices such as encouraging pronoun usage and providing unbiased channels for reporting concerns. The Mitra Collective serves as a vital Employee Resource Group (ERG), fostering community and driving positive change, while promoting inclusiveness and ally ship.
Thoughtworks’ objective is twofold: to create a workplace where every individual can bring their authentic selves to work and to advance equity and justice within our organisation and the broader tech industry. The reception to Thoughtworks’ DEI efforts has been overwhelmingly positive, reaffirming the belief that inclusivity is both a moral and business imperative.
Thoughtworks houses several initiatives supporting underrepresented groups across diverse, some of which include:
Ink Dive: We Need to Change the Mindset of Viewing LGBTQIA+ Hiring as Mere Diversity Recruitment
Can you share any success stories or notable achievements related to Thoughtworks’ DEI initiatives?
Thoughtworks has seen several success stories and notable achievements stemming from its DEI initiatives:
- Increased Representation: Thoughtworks’ commitment to diversity recruitment programs has resulted in a more diverse workforce, with increased representation of women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people of colour, and individuals with disabilities across various roles within the organisation.
- Positive Employee Feedback: Employees have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on the inclusivity and supportiveness of the workplace environment. Many have expressed gratitude for initiatives such as the Interning with Pride program and the Gender Affirmation Policy, which have enabled them to thrive personally and professionally.
- Recognition from External Organisations: Thoughtworks’ DEI efforts have garnered recognition from external organisations and institutions.
For example, the Indian Institute of Management in Bangalore (IIMB) drafted a case study on LGBTQ inclusion at Thoughtworks, highlighting the impact of its inclusive culture on the tech industry.
Thoughtworks also received a certification from Great Places to Work in 2023 for the initiatives being implemented across the board.
- Community Engagement and Advocacy: Thoughtworks’ Mitra Collective has been instrumental in driving wider engagement of the LGBTQIA+ community, both within the company and in society at large. Through advocacy efforts and community-building initiatives, Thoughtworks has become a leading voice for LGBTQIA+ rights in the tech industry.
- Tangible Policy Impact: Thoughtworks’ policies, such as the Inclusive Parental Policy and Medical Health Insurance Coverage for same-sex partners, have had tangible positive impacts on employees’ lives, ensuring equitable access to benefits and support for all.
These success stories and achievements underscore Thoughtworks’ commitment to creating a workplace where diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just buzzwords but integral components of the company culture. They demonstrate the tangible benefits of prioritising DEI and serve as inspiration for ongoing efforts to drive positive change within the organisation and beyond.
How does the company foster allyship and advocacy among its employees to support diversity and inclusion efforts?
Thoughtworks fosters allyship and advocacy within its workforce through a comprehensive array of strategies. Employees benefit from education and training programs designed to heighten awareness of diversity and inclusion issues, empowering them to become informed advocates. Employee Resource Groups, such as the Mitra Collective, serve as vital conduits for fostering community and solidarity among employees, providing platforms for shared experiences and driving focused advocacy initiatives.
Open dialogue and communication channels are also meticulously cultivated to facilitate constructive discussions on diversity topics, encouraging employees to share perspectives and offer suggestions. Leadership support is also prevalent through active participation in diversity initiatives and their unwavering advocacy for inclusive policies. Moreover, employees are encouraged to actively engage with external communities and organisations, thus extending their contributions to diversity efforts beyond the confines of the company. Thoughtworks proudly recognizes and celebrates individuals who demonstrate unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion, thereby fostering a culture where every member feels empowered to contribute meaningfully to positive change within the organisation and broader society.
How does Thoughtworks address unconscious bias and promote cultural competence among employees?
Thoughtworks addresses unconscious bias and promotes cultural competence among its employees through a multifaceted approach. The company provides comprehensive training programs focused on raising awareness of unconscious bias and its impacts on decision-making processes. These programs equip employees with the tools and strategies to recognize and mitigate bias in their interactions and decision-making.
Additionally, Thoughtworks fosters a culture of continuous learning and dialogue, encouraging employees to engage in open discussions about diversity and inclusion topics. This includes providing resources and forums for employees to deepen their understanding of different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. Furthermore, the company integrates diversity and inclusion considerations into various aspects of its operations, from talent acquisition to project delivery. By prioritising cultural competence and actively addressing unconscious bias, Thoughtworks aims to create an inclusive workplace where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best work.
Looking ahead, what are some future goals or priorities for Thoughtworks in terms of diversity, equity, and inclusion?
Looking ahead, Thoughtworks is committed to advancing its efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) by setting ambitious goals and priorities. One key priority is to further enhance diversity within the organisation, particularly in leadership positions and technical roles, by implementing targeted recruitment strategies and fostering an inclusive culture that attracts and retains diverse talent.
The company aims to deepen its focus on equity by ensuring fair and equitable access to opportunities, resources, and support for all employees, regardless of their backgrounds or identities. Thoughtworks will continue to invest in initiatives aimed at promoting inclusion and belonging, such as expanding Employee Resource Groups and enhancing cultural competency training programs. We are dedicated to leveraging its platform and influence to drive positive change in the broader tech industry by advocating for policies and practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. By prioritizing these goals and initiatives, Thoughtworks seeks to create a workplace where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive, while also contributing to a more equitable and inclusive society as a whole.
As the Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) for Thoughtworks India and Middle East region, Dipsi Thakkar Kundal leads the strategy and execution of initiatives that foster a culture of belonging, respect, and empowerment for employees, clients, and communities. With over 12 years of experience in consulting, program management, and delivery, Dipsi has a proven track record of enabling organisational growth and performance through data-driven and client-centric solutions.
