2023 ESG Report
Amelia’s leadership journey with Thrive
August 1, 2024
Amelia Duffy has always been passionate about fostering inclusivity and diversity, particularly in the workplace. When she learned about the opportunity to attend the Thrive leadership training provided by Pride at Work Canada (PWC) through the Enterprise Proud pillar at Loblaw, she eagerly applied.
Thrive is a ten-week virtual program dedicated to two-Spirit, queer and trans people managers where participants get exclusive access to queer and trans leaders working at the highest levels of Canadian businesses and engage in important peer-to-peer discussions.
“Being selected for the program was very exciting and a great honour,” says Amelia, who is a Senior Human Resources Business Partner.
As a 2SLGBTQIA+ individual, Amelia has faced both challenges and triumphs in her journey to be her authentic self in various environments. She sought the skills and knowledge to empower others at work and in her community, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and accepted. Amelia's commitment to this cause was evident in 2023 when she helped launch the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee at Maple Grove DC. This initiative, with its designated Pillar Champions, aimed to lead communication, events, and activities within the DC, fostering an inclusive culture. The committee's success was reflected in the growing participation at each meeting, showcasing the increased trust and open communication within the team.
Amelia knew that the Thrive leadership training would further enhance her ability to support her team. Throughout the program, she gained valuable insights into intersectionality, creating inclusive workspaces, and more. However, the lesson that resonated most with her was the focus on mental health. She learned how compassion in an organization profoundly impacts employee well-being, engagement, and overall productivity.
“When leaders demonstrate genuine care and empathy, they create a supportive environment where individuals feel valued and understood,” Amelia shared. “This fosters trust, loyalty, and collaboration among team members. I strongly believe that leading by example, showing kindness and understanding in daily interactions, and promoting a culture where empathy is a core value, results in enhanced morale, reduced stress, and a resilient, high-performing team.”
Loblaw’s commitment to promoting inclusivity enriches the entire workplace culture.
“It demonstrates a commitment to ongoing learning and improvement, which is crucial for fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and respected,” says Amelia. “Seeing Loblaw invest in such initiatives makes me proud to be part of this organization and motivates me to contribute to its success.”
By actively learning about the issues, terminology, and experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, leaders can better advocate for policies and practices that promote equality and respect. This commitment not only enhances the well-being and productivity of 2SLGBTQIA+ colleagues but also strengthens the overall organizational culture.
