Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core objective of the EQUALS initiative?
Equity is the end goal of the EQUALS initiative. There is a notable multi-ethnic and racial equity leadership gap in the marketplace. With unity through action, advocacy from influential voices and a quality commitment on the part of companies to reduce bias and create inclusive leaders, we will be able to improve racial equality across corporate businesses.
How will the EQUALS pairs be matched?
Novel software has been created to assist in the matching process through a series of unique questions based on personal background & history, depth of cultural sensitivity awareness & understanding, personality profiles, and social consciousness.
Why are we being paired with someone from a different organization?
To benefit from a cross-cultural, cross-functional, and cross-professional experience, EQUALS pairs will be matched based on different race and company.
Will this be a safe space for open dialogue, or will you be reporting my interactions with my EQUALS partner back to my employer?
The initiative is safe and confidential, and we will only report general metrics regarding overall participation back to your employer.
Is there specific curriculum to assist in the conversations?
Yes! EQUALS pairs will connect via PairUp app and participate in curriculum-based, guided-conversations designed to build self-efficacy, confidence and empower them to be leaders within their own company. Learning Tracks for the initiative include: 1). Multi-Ethnic Mentorship, 2). Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging and 3). Inclusive Leadership.
What is PairUp app?
PairUp is an app specifically designed to support mentorship initiatives and encourage conversations around diversity and equity that will be utilized by the EQUALS pairs. The app will include Learning Tracks designed to facilitate conversation, reflection prompts and growth metrics to track your progress.
How can I access the PairUp app?
Once you are registered for the initiative, you will be able to access the PairUp app on your phone, tablet or laptop.
How much time am I expected to spend with my EQUALS partner and how long is the program?
This will be a 6-month initiative and EQUALS pairs are expected to communicate at least twice a month (either virtually or in-person). However, we encourage you to meet as often as your schedule allows.
Is there a cost?
While individuals are welcome at their own expense, we are working with employers and organizations to invest in the initiative and provide the program at no cost to their employees.
How do I sign up?
If you would like to be a part of the change for more diverse and more successful workplaces and businesses, you can present this idea to your company so that they can sign up. Once your company has signed up, you will receive an application with questions so that you can be matched with a like-minded peer with a different cultural and organizational background. Once you are matched, the journey to change begins!