Why investing in diversity and inclusion is "smart economics"

Embracing dversity and inclusion is not just a social or ethical imperative, it is a smart economic strategy. In this session, we will explore how Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) initiatives can drive economic growth, through increased profitability, improved productivity, and a stronger competitive edge. In addition to the measurable economic benefits, the session will highlight how inclusive workplaces may attract top talent, improve employee retention, engagement, and overall organizational performance. Participants will also gain insights into how D&I strategies can have positive impact on problem-solving, creativity, and decision-making through real examples. The discussion will also cover global best practices for implementing D&I programs that align with business objectives while creating a corporate culture of equity and opportunities for all.

Carolina Ferrer is a Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Specialist with over 15 years of professional experience in international development, in organizations such as the World Bank Group, USAID, UN Women and the Inter-American Development Bank. She has worked extensively in regions as Latin America and the Caribbean, Africa and Eastern Europe, by implementing development projects and conducting analytical work to promote gender equality and women´s empowerment, mainly in technical sectors (i.e. Energy, Transport). Carolina has led several capacity building initiatives for representatives from companies and governments and has supported them in developing gender equality strategies and policies to advance gender equality at the workplace and at the country level. Since 2016, she has also worked as an Adjunct professor at the IE School of Global and Public Affairs of IE University, teaching courses and seminars on Gender Equality and Sustainable Development, Project Management and Foreign Aid in Undergraduate and Masters' Degree programs. Currently, she works at the World Bank Group as a Gender Specialist, at the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR).