We were so lucky to sit down with Halimah Beaulieu to discuss what EDI (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) is and why it's a really pivotal time in history to be recognizing the need for this.

It's very close to home for Halimah, who presents as Asian, and in the current climate, this became a calling to learn more about what EDI means and create opportunities for businesses and individuals to learn, adapt and grow in a more universally wholistic way.

So what is EDI?

• Equity is defined as the removal of systemic barriers and biases enabling all individuals to have equal opportunity to access and benefit.
• To achieve this, individuals or companies must develop a strong understanding of the systemic barriers faced by individuals from underrepresented groups (e.g., women, persons with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples, racialized minorities, individuals from the LGBTQ2+ community) and put in place impactful measures to address these barriers.
• Diversity is defined as differences in race, colour, place of origin, religion, immigrant and newcomer status, ethnic origin, ability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and age.
• A diversity of perspectives and lived experiences is fundamental to achieving understanding or equal opportunities to access and benefit.
• Inclusion is defined as the practice of ensuring that all individuals are valued and respected for their contributions and are equally supported.
• Ensuring that company employees or agents are integrated and supported is fundamental to achieving excellence.

Oh, and one more thing: Halimah is an athlete who holds the BC record for the Steeple Chase, which is something that we didn't know a whole lot about. So we'll get you some new knowledge on what that's all about too! (You never know, you may just want to take it up after hearing about it!)