Demystifying DEI: Global PR Thought Leaders Share Inclusive Strategies for the Future
As conversations around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) continue to gain momentum across industries, the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management reaffirmed its commitment to advancing inclusive communication through its last webinar, Demystifying DEI: Looking into the Future. Held last June 18 in celebration of DEI Month, the virtual event gathered a distinguished panel of international thought leaders to explore how DEI principles can be meaningfully embedded into the heart of communication strategies.
Moderated by Ana Pista, Founder and CEO of Ardent Communications, the session brought together three influential voices from across the global PR and communications landscape:
- Priya Bates: President of Inner Strength Communication, co-founder of A Leader Like Me, and co-author of Building a Culture of Inclusivity: Effective Internal Communication for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
- Shreya Krishnan: Managing Director of AnitaB.org India.
- Dr. Omoniyi P. Ibietan: Head of Media Relations at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and Secretary General of the African Public Relations Association (APRA).
Ana Pista, Founder and CEO of Ardent Communications
Each speaker provided a unique regional and professional perspective, creating a dynamic dialogue on how DEI can be both a strategic imperative and a cultural mindset within organizations.
Principles to Practice: Rethinking DEI
The webinar began with Priya Bates’ framework of the “6 Rs”: Rights, Representation, Recruitment, Retention, Results, and Reputation – a comprehensive lens through which organizations can measure and drive meaningful DEI progress. “When people feel they belong, are included, and are valued, organizations achieve the results they aim for,” she noted, emphasizing the tangible impact of internal inclusivity on business outcomes.
Priya Bates, President of Inner Strength Communication and co-founder of A Leader Like Me
The Power of Cognitive and Generational Diversity
Shreya Krishnan continued the discussion by spotlighting the importance of listening to marginalized voices, particularly in generational and cognitive diversity contexts. “Without inclusion, diversity becomes just a statistic,” she remarked. “It’s crucial for people to feel seen, heard, and understood to truly foster a culture of belonging.” Her insights served a reminder that DEI is not just about metrics but also human connection, empathy, and structural change.
Shreya Krishnan, Managing Director of AnitaB.org India
Global Imperative: DEI as a Policy, Not a Slogan
Concluding the session, Dr. Omoniyi P. Ibietan offered a policy-driven perspective, and underscored DEI as a global necessity rather than an organizational add-on. “DEI is not optional; it’s a pathway to harmony and cohesion. Like justice, it must be actively practiced and not reduced to a mere slogan,” he said. His call to action resonated with the participants from both public and private sectors, highlighting the role of PR professionals in shaping narratives that prioritize inclusion at every level.
Dr. Omoniyi P. Ibietan: Head of Media Relations at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and Secretary General of the African Public Relations Association (APRA)
Building a More Inclusive Future Together
The “Demystifying DEI: Looking Into the Future” webinar was more than just a discussion, it was a call for the global communications community to take intentional, sustained action. From strategic frameworks to lived experiences, the session left attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and practical approaches to foster inclusivity.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, Global Alliance continues to serve as a platform for cross-cultural dialogue and professional excellence. Through these events, it continues to uphold its mission of promoting ethical standards and best practices in public relations; championing a future where every voice not only counts, but leads.
Watch the Full Webinar
Missed the event? We’ve got you covered. Watch the full replay on YouTube: