Dr. Lola Adeyemo: Thriving in Intersectionality; Leadership and Influence for Women in STEM - 031

Who is this for?This episode is for leaders, HR professionals, and women in STEM who want to build inclusive workplace cultures. If you are a multi-layered professional, an immigrant, or someone passionate about creating spaces where everyone can thrive, Dr. Lola provides the strategic insights you need.SummaryIn this insightful Women’s History Month conversation,Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya⁠⁠⁠ is joined by Dr. Lola Adeyemo, a leadership strategist, author, and the founder of EQI Mindset. Dr. Lola, who also founded the nonprofit Immigrants Incorporate, shares her journey from growing up in Nigeria to becoming a leading voice on intersectionality and employee resource groups (ERGs) in the corporate world. She breaks down the crucial difference between representation (seeing what’s possible) and belonging (a personal feeling of being seen and valued for who you are).The discussion offers a masterclass on ERG strategy, highlighting common pitfalls like treating ERGs as underfunded side projects or creating them without a broader inclusion strategy. Dr. Lola emphasizes that to truly thrive, we must embrace our multi-layered identities and find communities that support each facet of who we are. She encourages listeners to move past imposter syndrome by embracing fear as a sign of growth and taking consistent steps toward their goals.Key Takeaways:Belonging is Personal: While organizations can foster representation, the feeling of belonging is a personal experience that leaders must create a safe space for.ERGs are Cultural Activators: Employee Resource Groups should be integrated into the company’s core strategy, not treated as siloed social clubs or DEI side projects.Embrace Your Multi-Layered Identity: Find different communities to support the different facets of your identity (e.g., as a professional, a parent, a person of faith). You don’t have to show up as everything, everywhere, but you can be your whole self.You Are Capable: Overcome the fear of not being good enough by taking small, consistent actions. Embrace fear as a sign that you are stepping out of your comfort zone.Memorable Quotes:"Belonging is personal... it’s not your role as a leader to tell me how to feel belonging." [19:27]"ERGs are not your DEI. ERGs are basically cultural activators." [25:03]"You are capable. You can do it. There is no perfect time, perfect qualifications that can help you move forward. Just believe in yourself and then take those steps." [45:15]Timestamps:[03:10] Dr. Lola’s work on leadership, identity, and belonging.[11:17] How to thrive in your intersectionality.[17:18] The difference between representation and belonging.[23:39] Common mistakes organizations make with ERG strategy.[39:03] Dr. Lola on legacy and the power of choice.FAQs:What is the difference between representation and belonging? Representation is seeing people like you in various roles, showing what is possible. Belonging is the personal feeling of being safe, seen, and valued for who you are.How can I start embracing my different identities at work? Find communities inside and outside of work that support each layer of your identity. Build confidence in each area separately, and over time they will come together.Connect with Dr. Lola:Guest: Dr. Lola AdeyemoLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drlolaadeyemo/Website: drlola-adeyemo.comInstagram: @adeyemololaTikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@drlola.a⁠Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lola.adeyemo1Website: https://www.drlola-adeyemo.comEmail: [email protected]