IWD 2025: Adobe event – Engineering the Future
The tech sector in the UK and Europe continues to present challenges for individuals from traditionally underrepresented groups seeking successful and sustainable careers. Despite progress, barriers to entry and advancement remain. That’s why it was such a privilege to join the talented team at Adobe for their International Women’s Day celebrations, where we explored how we can collectively drive inclusion, foster innovation, and create lasting impact.
The Power of Inclusive Teams
During the event, we discussed the tangible benefits of inclusive teams—not just for individuals, but for organisations as a whole. The evidence is clear: diverse and inclusive teams are more innovative, collaborative, and effective. When people feel valued and empowered, they bring new ideas, fresh perspectives, and creative solutions to the table.
We heard inspiring stories of how working in an inclusive environment leads to the development of better products, sharper problem-solving, and ultimately, happier and more motivated teams. It’s a win-win scenario: organisations benefit from smarter solutions and stronger performance, while individuals experience greater belonging and purpose.
Small Actions, Big Impact
One of the most valuable takeaways from the conversation was the importance of small, everyday actions in creating a more inclusive culture. It doesn’t always require large-scale initiatives—sometimes, it’s as simple as sharing social capital more equitably.
By making sure that all team members—regardless of their background—have access to the same networks, resources, and opportunities, we empower them to contribute fully and confidently. Something as straightforward as inviting a colleague to a meeting they wouldn’t normally attend or advocating for their ideas can make a significant difference in their sense of belonging and visibility.
A huge thank you to Opeyemi Sofoluke, Mihaela Dobre, Daniel Mrose, and Saravana Kumaran S for organising such a fantastic and insightful event. Your leadership and dedication to fostering inclusion and driving meaningful change are truly inspiring.
As we reflect on the discussions from Adobe’s International Women’s Day event, it’s clear that building an inclusive tech industry is not just the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing to do. Inclusion fuels innovation and enhances impact, benefiting organisations, employees, and the wider community.
By committing to everyday inclusivity, we can shape a tech sector where everyone—regardless of gender, race, or background—has the opportunity to thrive. Let’s continue to engineer a future that’s more diverse, innovative, and equitable for all.