Telus Health is promoting diversity and sharing the beauty of Black cultures through its latest Black History Month campaign.
Every February, the organization spotlights Black-led businesses through an integrated campaign featured across its websites, computer lockscreens, social media channels and in more than 220 retail stores. This year, the company chose to highlight Beauty Braids & Beyond, a Black-led hair care supplier.
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“Our aim is to highlight excellence in entrepreneurship in the community not only to give recognition but to motivate future entrepreneurs,” said Paula Allen, the organization’s global leader and vice-president of research, insights and strategic communications and executive sponsor of its employee resource group for Black team members and allies, in an emailed statement to Benefits Canada.
Allen noted the campaign has reached more than 60,000 team members around the globe and the responses to it have been overwhelmingly positive. “Every year, we’re honoured to amplify Black entrepreneurs as part of our ongoing commitment to promoting diversity, supporting the Black community and sharing the beauty of Black cultures.”
Indeed, the ERG’s focus on supporting the Black community is a year-round commitment, said Allen, noting, over the years, Telus has also launched initiatives like leadership panels, networking events and volunteer programs. In 2023, it launched a $50 million student bursary program and it has also invested $600,000 in diverse filmmakers and donated more than $3 million to programs supporting youth from underrepresented communities.
This year, Allen also hosted a Black History Month event that brought team members together virtually to discuss managing mental health and its stigmas in the Black community. “It was an important opportunity to learn, connect and celebrate our Black community as a team.”
Telus’ social purpose efforts are paying off, as its REACH ERG was recently recognized by the Black Professionals in Tech Network as a top resource group in North America. She adds that all the company’s ERGs plays a critical role in its strategy by providing input and bringing diverse perspectives to its culture.
“Our commitment to diversity and inclusion has been a cornerstone of our culture and core value for over 25 years. It’s deeply embedded in who we are, what we do and how we work, and it will continue to shape both our workplace culture and our contributions to the communities we serve.”
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