Unveiling Growth and Equity: Learning from CILAR's ACCELERATE Mentorship Program

CILAR’s ACCELERATE Mentorship Program was a transformative journey of personal and professional growth. Key elements of  the program focused on leadership development, equity, and inclusion. In collaboration with Karlyn Percil and her certified emotional intelligence work, we explored significant barriers in leadership, delved into systemic inequalities, and uncovered strategies to create more inclusive workplaces, especially for Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC).

One of the key learning outcomes was  the application of an equity lens throughout leadership development reinforcing that leadership comes with the responsibility to empower teams. By creating access and opportunities for everyone, leaders not only drive positive change, but also advance inclusivity, respect and champion diversity. 

The program  highlighted that BIPOC individuals often face exclusionary access to leadership roles and slower career progression. By acknowledging systemic barriers, participants learned how to develop strategies to promote equitable sponsorship, representation, and opportunities.

Breaking down management barriers was a pivotal aspect of our program. These barriers were  categorized into three areas;  structural, individual, and intellectual barriers. These barriers tend to manifest as; restricted access to networks, misrepresentation in leadership roles, and cultural misunderstandings. This exploration offered critical insights into how organizations need to dismantle these barriers to foster a more inclusive environment. Understanding these pieces moves toward creating psychological safety and equitable support, which are fundamental to dismantling these barriers.

The program highlighted C-Suite leadership practices, focusing on how top executives can foster an environment of human equity. Participants were encouraged to challenge inherited leadership models that perpetuate biases. The program advocated for disrupting the status quo, promoting inclusive decision-making, and enhancing team dynamics by cultivating emotional intelligence and psychological safety within teams.

The ACCELERATE Mentorship Program was not only meant to connect individuals, and deepen participants' understanding of leadership development but also empower them to address systemic inequities within organizations. Through active listening, open dialogue, and critical reflection, participants were, and are now equipped to champion equity in their leadership journeys, fostering inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive.

Check out these guides below:

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ACCELERATE Mentorship - Leadership Development 

‍ACCELERATE Mentorship - Leadership Development (C-Suite Practices)

ACCELERATE Mentorship - ACCELERATE Management Barriers