EmpowerUs
Photo: CreateHER Stock.
EmpowerUs is our personal development programme for grades 4, 5, and 6 staff from minority and under-represented backgrounds who aspire to develop their careers. This unique programme also includes inclusive leadership development for managers.
In 2023, we launched EmpowerHer - a pilot programme for minority ethnic women and their managers. In response to feedback from the pilot, we have expanded the programme to invite employees from a wider range of backgrounds to participate. Disabled staff, women, LGBTQUIA+ staff, and staff who identify as ethnic minority, who have aspirations to develop their careers are invited to apply for EmpowerUs.
The programme's primary aim is to equip participants with knowledge and abilities needed to effectively address the unique challenges they face as they progress as minorities in predominantly non-diverse environments; at the same time as equipping managers to become catalysts for change by understanding and confronting systemic practices and personal behaviours that can perpetuate disadvantages for minority groups. We recognise that real change will only happen if we make positive steps to change the system and we feel that this programme, which supports line managers to be accountable for change, is an integral part of our Social Inclusion Strategy and objectives to increase diversity.
To apply please complete this form by 1 November 2024.
EmpowerUs will start in December 2024 - find more about applying using the links below.
"I am delighted to be sponsoring EmpowerUs. To my mind, this programme embodies our values by creating opportunities for staff and their managers to understand and thrive on difference; creating space for them to think freely and share opportunities and the connections created between participants and their managers will support them as they progress on their respective career journeys.
One of the features which I believe make this programme leading edge is the involvement of the managers. I would strongly encourage eligible staff to apply and their managers to both support their application and engage in the programme. Through talent development programmes such as EmpowerUs, we are making positive strides towards increasing diversity in our future leaders and that will enable us to point the way ahead together towards a better and more inclusive world."
Rachel Sandby-Thomas, Registrar
About
The programme will combine workshops and group coaching, delivered by consultant and executive coaches with extensive experience facilitating inclusive leadership programmes.
Apply
The programme is open to academic and professional services staff at grades 4, 5, and 6 who are disabled, women, LGBTQUIA+, and/or identify as ethnic minority.
FAQs
You will find answers to some frequently asked questions on this page, if you have any other questions please get in touch at socialinclusionpa@warwick.ac.uk.
What previous participants say:
"I am very pleased that I had the opportunity of being part of EmpowerHer. EmpowerHer helps me to reflect on my capabilities and achievements to understand how to manage important factors to be successful in a working environment such as effective communication, navigation of policies and mechanisms to overcome complex situations. After the programme, I do feel, as the name indicates, Empowered! to give a better direction to my professional career using my skills and knowledge."
Martha Littuma Larrea
"This has been an extremely good experience. I have enjoyed reflecting on my own good practices and learned new skills and knowledge to better manage my team."
Amy Dowden, Manager.
"I would recommend this programme to other colleagues across the University. The course has opened my eyes to new perspectives and hidden challenges; most importantly it has helped to identify ways I can support others in overcoming these."
Monica Sounderraj
"Wonderful opportunity to network with a wider audience of aspiring female leaders. Listening to empowered women share their experiences on overcoming personal and cultural barriers, and thriving in a multi-cultural institution like the University of Warwick, was truly inspiring. Warwick is proud of its diverse community, and initiatives like the EmpowerHer programme are essential in embedding a culture of inclusivity. This is the next step that will help Warwick reach even greater strengths"
Jodie Wallington
"A wonderful opportunity to meet and learn from peers in a safe, supportive environment. EmpowerHer provided the opportunity to reflect on ourselves and the environment in which we work and come away with practical tools and new approaches to work along with a network of fantastic women to support."
Adriana Smith Ortiz
"I find the course really motivating. The course coach, programme and the participative approach were really useful to build confidence and network."
Ameera Jamil