The need to feel valued in the workplace matters. Not only is there a moral case, but if workers feel like they belong, companies reap substantial bottom-line benefits. Research by the Harvard Business Review showed that belonging was linked to a whopping 56% increase in job performance, a 50% drop in turnover risk, and a 75% reduction in sick days.
Yet, as many as 36% of people feel isolated and undervalued at work. Diversity and inclusion work is crucial, yet organisations struggle to understand what can be done to create welcoming workplace environments where everyone can thrive.

Jackie Handy is a dynamic presenter and a captivating storyteller who specialises in workforce engagement and belonging. With an extensive background in executive recruitment, leadership, and inclusion, Jackie has become a sought-after speaker, known for her engaging and thought-provoking style. Through sharing her lived experience of being a member of the LGBTQ+ community, she will help demystify this topic and show how small changes can have a big impact on your workplace culture.

Who Needs This Keynote?

Organisations who are committed to creating an inclusive culture for all their employees.

Companies who value diversity and want to strengthen their internal offering by hearing an external perspective.

Organisations who care about staff wellbeing and want to engage and retain a motivated, resilient and productive workforce.

What Will the Audience Learn?

They will understand why we need to lean back from unconscious bias and lean into conscious inclusion.

They will uncover the part privilege plays in enhancing belonging at work.

They will be empowered to get it right, rather than being fearful of mistakes.

They will recognise the impact inclusion and belonging has on organisational success and be given the tools to get started.

Communication skills are consistently rated as the most important ‘soft skill’ required for leaders in the workplace. The ability to facilitate powerful conversations with your team members results in sustainable return on investment. If you can engage your teams, you improve wellbeing, inclusion and performance.
With fewer than 20% or workers globally feeling actively engaged in their work, the modern workplace needs valuable conversations more than ever to help combat burnout, increase productivity and strengthen team cohesion.

Jackie Handy is a dynamic presenter and a captivating storyteller who delves into the realms of workforce engagement, leadership, and belonging. With an extensive background in executive recruitment, leadership, and inclusion, Jackie has become a sought-after speaker, known for her engaging and thought-provoking style. Through drawing lessons from her 500-mile Camino hike across northwest Spain, she will show how the power of better conversations build confidence, deepen understanding and help navigate changing landscapes in an ever-changing world.

Who Needs This Keynote?

Organisations who are preparing for or experiencing change, who want to increase engagement and performance.

Companies who want to reduce staff turnover and strengthen team cohesion.

Organisations who are passionate about inclusion and wellbeing, looking to demonstrate how they value their people in day-to-day interactions.

What Will the Audience Learn?

They will learn how to spot the signs of disengagement and isolation.

They will learn how to unlock team potential through intentional conversations, to increase sales figures and improve service delivery.

They will learn the Pilgrim Principles for meaningful connections that transcend tech barriers and result in more cohesive teams with greater collaboration.

They will recognise the power of connection on motivation and team performance.