Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the FSC Conference 2023
The theme of the Financial Services Council conference this year is Building Consumer Confidence.
As part of our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, we recognise the importance of supporting all New Zealanders.
This theme is therefore about focussing on how we as an industry can support those who need it most, in all regions of New Zealand and of all gender identities, sexual orientations, cultures, ethnicities, ages and backgrounds.
This year's conference includes a main platform spotlight, breakfasts and breakout sessions focusing on various topics that our Diversity and Inclusion Committee has been prioritising. Read on to find out more about these sessions and speakers!
Ally skills facilitators, diversity champions, young trailblazers, ground-breaking entrepreneurs and industry leaders will unpack why DEI really matters and how to take tangible action.
If you're registered to attend the Conference, make sure you select these sessions as part of your agenda:
FSC MEMBER-ONLY MASTERCLASS
It's a two-way street: Can allyship engender trust?
2.30PM-4.30PM, Tuesday 15th August
We're excited to invite you all to a special workshop run by Ally Skills NZ. The session is aimed at building our skills and learning in a practical and action-based way to address marginalisation and racism and support inclusion. The Ally Skills Workshop provides simple, everyday ways for allies to support people who are targets of marginalisation, including women, people of colour, LGBTQIA folks, caregivers, people with disabilities, people of different ages and body sizes, and others. We will learn how to recognise your own privileges and build awareness of marginalisation. Speakers include:
- Elina Ashimbayeva (she/her) - Co-Founder, Ally Skills NZ and Storyo (facilitator)
- Dellwyn Stuart - CEO, YWCA Tāmaki Makaurau
- Maretha Smit, CEO, Diversity Works
- Kane Chard - Transaction Relationship Associate, ASB and National Finance Audit & Risk Committee member, NZ Māori Council
- Matt Prichard - Chair, KPMG
Followed by networking and conference opening drinks from 4.30pm - 6.00pm.
WOMEN IN SUPER BREAKFAST
Who decides the future of your business?
7.15AM-8.30AM, Wednesday 16th August
As joint CEO at home but with responsibility for 80% of buying decisions, women in the workforce are critical to the healthy functioning and sustainability of a range of businesses. Attend this popular breakfast session to explore how to attract, retain and leverage the skills and experience of these important decision makers. Speakers include:
- Prue Tyler - Founder and Director, SHIFT Advisory (Facilitator)
- Angela Meyer - Gender Equity Consultant, Mercer
- Evie Aston - Founder, Lucies
- Natalie Ferguson - Co-Founder, Powrsuit
In the spotlight: DEI
11.40AM-11.55AM, Wednesday 16th August
This short but impactful spotlight session aims to raise awareness of the issues that are real in our industry and need action, aiming to spotlight both the repercussions when DEI is not prioritised and the positive outcomes when organisations do address it.
Afternoon Breakout Day 1
Equity and Belonging: Understanding the narrative of diversity, equity and inclusion
2.45PM-3.45PM, Wednesday 16th August
DEI can often be a single focus on gender, ethnicity or diversity in the workplace but creating a sense of belonging for all, is so much more. It forms part of the ‘S’ in ESG while also relevant to up and coming conduct licensing with fair customer outcomes a priority. This discussion will explore the importance of, and benefits arising from, a DEI focus within your business.
- Tracey Cross (Facilitator) - Legal and Financial Expert, Chair of Women in Super
- George Ngatai - Director, Te Whanau Ora Community Clinic
- Joe Consedine - Consultant
- Kirsten Patterson - CEO, Institute of Directors
- Erin Venter - Partner and Chief People Officer, PwC
Day 2 Breakfast
From Zoomer to Boomer - What really makes GenZers so different?
7.15AM-8.30AM, Thursday 17th August
This session looks to the rise of Gen Z in New Zealand, and what’s new, different and changing for them, bringing a realism from their perspectives on the financial services industry and beyond. Speakers include:
- Amber Le - Student, University of Auckland
- Sarah Keenan - Deloitte
- Clarissa Hirst - FSC (facilitator)
Exhibition
Charity partner Good Shepherd NZ
Wednesday 16th and Thursday 17th August
To find out more ahead of the Conference, visit this page.