Misha Lobban-Clarke, Executive Director of the Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), shared her views on diversity and inclusion, in a recent ACCA Caribbean feature.
BCCI Executive Director, Misha Lobban-Clarke: “Diversity, for me, is the value we place on others. It is accepting and respecting differences in others – whether that is, race/ethnicity, culture, religion, age, gender or qualification. Inclusion speaks to ensuring a sense of equal opportunity for all. I am a strong believer in greater equality, diversity, and fair treatment for all and it is for this reason that I fully support the UN Sustainable Development Goals which seek to address many of the imbalances which remain within in societies and within our work environment”.
Q: How do you promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace and in daily life?
I’ve always seen myself as a Caribbean woman representing the diversity of our people, our culture, and our experiences and this is demonstrated in my personal and professional life.
Q: What does diversity / inclusion mean to the BCCI?
The Barbados Chamber of Commerce & Industry, as an advocate of the business sector, represents the diversity of the business community in Barbados. Its membership represents a rich blend of local and international business interests – indigenous and foreign-owned companies, and workers who represent the national and non-national community. This rich mix of experience, cultural diversity, knowledge and thought leadership is a positive addition to the business practices and culture in Barbados.
Q: What do you do to embed diversity and inclusion in the work environment?
Diversity/inclusion is highlighted in the fact that the Council of the Barbados Chamber comprises 12 members (10 male and 6 female) and is led by a female President. The members of Council also represent the diverse sectors (micro, small, medium and large enterprises) that make up the private sector in Barbados and include sectors such as retail, manufacturing, financial services, professional services, energy, ICT, tourism & cultural industries and construction.
