In the summer of 2020, the death of George Floyd at the hands of police in Minneapolis sparked a wave of protests felt across the world. This period also marked a watershed career moment for Hannah Mercer. Growing up in multicultural South London, Hannah always celebrated diversity. But as a teen, she saw how racism affected her friends. Now Vice President of Retail Activation & Merchandising at adidas, Hannah works tirelessly to ensure that the brand's 34,000 retail ambassadors work in an inclusive environment and culture. Because, as she explains, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion shouldn't be the responsibility of just one department. In today's Rebellious Optimists episode, Hannah explains why leadership is integral to effecting change, how we can all make our voices heard and the importance of using our privilege to get others a seat at the table.
Main topics discussed: (timestamps)
04:17 How the Black Lives Matter movement accelerated adidas’ response to racism
12:52 Why Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is more than just a HR function
14:46 The importance of speaking up on issues and making your voice heard
22:15 The best way to affect and make change, every day
Quotes:
“I don't have a lane. If you stay in your lane and you see injustice or wrongdoing, you have to step out of that and and do the right thing”
“Climb your way. Get those doors open and leave them open for everybody else"
"Leadership should create the right opportunities for underrepresented groups to make sure that they become the next generation of leaders"
Host: Twiggy Jalloh
This Week’s Guest: Hannah Mercer
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