EmbRace (culture and ethnicity) Network at Capita

EmbRACE is Capita’s Race and Ethnicity Employee Network. It was started in 2018 and aims to champion all races and ethnicities within Capita to help them to thrive. We are committed to developing the business’ collective understanding of the challenges ethnic minorities face all over the world, while always being respectful of local customs and cultural sensitivities.

What do we do?

Our members are taking actions to break down barriers and support an inclusive work environment. We act as a collective voice for Capita colleagues around shared issues or concerns, and the network provides input and acts as a sounding board for strategic diversity objectives.

Meet the team

The network is run by Fola Odunukan, Senior Consultant in our Tranformation & Consulting business, and Gillian Perry, Group Head of Communications Channels and Planning, is Co-Chair for the network.

“We are making considerable strides in stamping out racism and all forms of discrimination with policy changes, formal training, Speak Up and more. We can feel the cultural change, especially towards ethnicity. We have a more diverse Executive team and Board, and I’m overjoyed to see more diverse ethnicities in senior roles, particularly Black people.”

Gillian Perry, Co-Chair of EmbRACE

Black Employee Network (BEN)

Our Black Employee Network is a chapter of EmbRACE and currently has over 250 members. It was founded in 2020 following the abhorrent event and murder of George Floyd. We wanted to create a safe space for all Black colleagues to feel supported, understood and empowered to excel in their careers, without being limited or harmed by the effects of racism.

What do we do?

We work hard to provide an environment that enables and enhances professional and personal growth. Our members can get involved with networking opportunities, mentorship programmes and events that raise awareness about issues surrounding inequity, anti-Blackness and cultural understanding. We act as liaisons to management and the community at Capita and provide a supportive environment where they can expand their own skills and leadership capabilities too. The network also supports Capita with recruitment and retention initiatives and assists the marketing teams with any efforts for the targeted communities.