Building bridges through employee resource groups (ERGs)
ERGs serve as dynamic platforms for collaboration, education and advocacy. They are a backbone for fostering diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging within Calian, empowering employees from diverse backgrounds to harness unique perspectives and create an environment where everyone can excel.
Testimonials from Within
Calian GOal Getters
Kim Vrieling, Co-Chair of the GOal Getters ERG shares a compelling example of collaboration among members:
“The GOal Getters ERG has been fortunate enough to see some amazing collaboration among members. The impact has been seen not only in our meetings but also across business lines. Two employees at Calian, who previously had not met, were introduced through the ERG and were able to gain a deeper understanding of each other’s roles within the company. Their collaboration led to the implementation of a project that helped a team perform their work in a more efficient manner. Goals achieved!”
Calian Young Professionals, and Supporters
Lesley Patry and Helen Percival, Co-Chairs of the Young Professionals, and Supporters ERG highlight the roles ERGs play in connecting employees:
“The Calian Young Professionals and Supporters ERG has been an invaluable platform for employees of various age groups to exchange personal insights and cultivate a means to establish connections within the company. Our group plays a role in enhancing employee experience and serves as a platform to foster a sense of knowledge-sharing and professional development among its members.”
Stefania Momtcheva, Co-Chair adds “Employee resource groups are a safe space for essential discussions to amplify employee voices. Being involved has provided me the opportunity to participate in group dialogue that positively contributes to a culture of collaboration and inclusiveness.”
Calian Indigenous Employees, and Supporters
Sylvie Timm, Chair of the Indigenous Employees, and Supporters reflects on the importance of being part of an ERG:
“Having ERGs has permitted employees to share and have a voice in topics that matter to us. I have found that being part of the Indigenous Employees, and Supporters ERG has led to some very thoughtful exchanges around subjects that are not always easy to discuss. Knowing that we are in a safe space and can share our thoughts and opinions has enabled us to learn from one another. I appreciate the steps that Calian has taken towards ways to support Truth and Reconciliation and am excited about the fact that they have been chosen as an Indigenous Works Employer of Choice Certification!”
SHINE (Supporting, Honoring, Inspiring and Nurturing Equality)
Myriam Deroo, Chair of SHINE shares thoughts on creating an inclusive workplace:
“ERGs are crucial for creating an inclusive workplace. As someone who identifies with the 2SLGBTQ+ community, I value the opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences and challenges. SHINE provides a safe space for me to express my identity and help educate colleagues and leadership, breaking down biases and stereotypes to foster a more diverse and equitable work environment. It definitely improves my job satisfaction, provides resources and support for mental health and well-being, while raising awareness of 2SLGBTQ+ issues through visibility and acceptance.”
The Calian Quilt
Luna Daniel and Rachel Jacques, Co-Chairs of the Calian Quilt symbolize diversity within the company as a vibrant quilt:
Luna Daniel, Co-Chair explains “The Calian Quilt is an ERG that brings together people who embrace individual stories, while recognizing the importance of embracing diversity of culture and origins. As a quilt can be made up of different patterns, fabrics and colours, Calian too is made up of a diverse population which includes various religious backgrounds, ethnicities and cultures. We wanted to create a group which allows us to celebrate the multicultures which make up the employee population of Calian.”
Rachel Jacques, Co-Chair also adds “Our first steps are to provide a safe learning space, where people are invited to build connection, learn from others, raise awareness, and explore topics on cultural diversity. This ERG is an opportunity to explore teachable moments that nurture curiosity and respect within Calian, irrespective of backgrounds.”
Women of Calian, and Supporters
Co-Chairs Roxanne Woolley and Soumya Iyer share their thoughts on DEIB: “The Women of Calian, and Supporters ERG plays crucial role in promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) in the workplace by offering a space where Women and their Supporters are able to share and discuss experiences, challenges and successes,” says Roxanne Woolley.
Soumya Iyer adds “As a group of over 100 members strong, we have been able to raise awareness about gender-related issues and advocate for greater representation of women at all levels of the organization by engaging in interactive conversations with the C-Suite to find ways to break down barriers that might prevent women from reaching their full potential in the workplace. These shared perspectives are integrated into the decision-making processes that directly lead to more innovative and effective business solutions.”
Roxanne Woolley continues, “Being active participants and leaders has empowered us to access the fullest extent of our potential in the workplace. Furthermore, playing an instrumental role in forging meaningful connections and cultivating trust with colleagues across the entire organization.”
Calian’s ERGs and broader DEIB program help demonstrate our commitment to the Calian ESG vision: Collaboration to Advance Resilience Excellence and Sustainability—Calian CARES™
