In her interview with GEA Agency, Alessandra Vascello, Associate HR Director at JAKALA, describes the company's initiatives as part of a broader strategy reflecting JAKALA’s commitment to equality, inclusion, and sustainability:
Human resources must align with corporate policies and external communications. JAKALA's Sustainability Report emphasizes that HR policies should reflect the company's public stance on social themes. If we advocate for equality, inclusion, and sustainability externally, it is imperative that our internal communications and employee programs reflect these same principles
Human-centric initiatives
Pride Month resonates deeply with HR because it centers on people and celebrates each individual's uniqueness. JAKALA has long extended employee benefits to their Relevant others – people they care about regardless of gender or familial relationship. For instance, the summer schools offered at the end of the academic year are available to the children of employees as well as those of their partners, reflecting JAKALA’s commitment to the concept of a non-traditional, queer family. This approach aligns with JAKALA's motto: “What matters to you, matters to JAKALA”.
Educational webinars and gender-neutral facilities
During Pride Month, JAKALA Italy hosted two significant webinars. The first, titled Over the Rainbow, featured the prominent Italian lawyer and LGBTQIA+ rights advocate Cathy La Torre. She guided employees through the history of Pride, emphasizing the ongoing struggles faced by homosexual and transgender individuals globally. Vascello notes:
Understanding why we still celebrate Pride is crucial, as many still question its relevance
The second webinar, held in collaboration with Unobravo, an Italian psychological support service, delved into the journey of understanding and embracing one's sexual orientation. It covered essential stages such as self-acceptance, coming out, and integrating into both family and work environments. Additionally, the session highlighted how crucial it is for workplaces to foster inclusivity, ensurin that employees feel accepted and supported regardless of their sexual orientation.
Moreover, JAKALA’s Milan office has introduced gender-neutral restrooms this month, promoting a workplace respectful of all gender identities. As Alessandra Vascello explains:
These restrooms are accessible to everyone, regardless of whether you identify as male, female, or non-binary. Respecting diversity includes even the design of our restrooms. Our culture extends into every aspect of the company
Continuous support for LGBTQIA+ community
Future plans include a variety of initiatives, both online and offline. For example, new hires will receive a rainbow pin for their backpacks as part of the onboarding process: "a declaration of intent", according to Vascello. Employees can also use a Pride-themed company banner on LinkedIn throughout the year to show their support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
JAKALA’s Pride Month initiatives highlight the company’s ongoing commitment to creating an environment where diversity is not just recognized but celebrated.
