Season’s greetings! As the year ends, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how far we’ve come in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) — and where we need to go next.
2024 was a year of action and evolution in DEI. Here’s a look back and some insights for 2025:
📊 2024 in Numbers and Insights
- 85% of companies globally expressed a commitment to DEI, but only 43% have robust, actionable strategies (source: Forbes)
- The DEI field grew by 15%, yet many roles were add-ons rather than standalone positions, leaving gaps in accountability.
- Cross-sector collaborations surged by 20%, showing the power of partnerships between businesses, NGOs, and universities.
- According to the ETLA Economic Research Institute, foreigners contribute to 60% of patents in Finland.
💡 What Changed Since My January Post?
- Action Over Words: Companies focus less on slogans and more on measurable outcomes.
- Shift in Roles: A rising number of DEI leaders lost titles, but this opened conversations on embedding DEI deeper into organizational strategies.
- Sustainable Careers: Predictable income remains a challenge for DEI professionals, calling for innovative funding and organizational support.
🎯 Three Things to Consider for 2025
- Deepen Integration: Make DEI part of your core business strategy, not an optional add-on.
- Measure Impact: Build systems to track progress and ROI on DEI initiatives — only 30% of companies currently do this effectively.
- Upskill and Collaborate: Invest in cross-sector partnerships and robust training for leadership and employees alike.
Let’s make 2025 the year where DEI becomes more than just a conversation. It’s time for action, accountability, and authentic inclusion.
🌍 A Small Act of Kindness
This year, I have consistently supported Doctors Without Borders for their incredible work in caring for people in conflict zones. I encourage you to consider supporting an organization making a real impact. You can support them here: Doctors Without Borders
Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a DEI-empowered New Year!
Warm regards,
Kamilla Sultanova
P.S. Keep an eye out for my DEI Trends Report 2025 coming in January!